Standing in Grace (Part 5 of 5): Grace Sustains Us
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. — 2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV)
In this passage, Paul shares how he pleaded with God three times to remove what he called “a thorn in the flesh.” God did not take it away, but instead gave Paul something far greater — a revelation of sustaining grace.
Paul explains that the thorn was allowed “to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations.” (2 Corinthians 12:7) In other words, God knew Paul so intimately that He allowed this weakness to keep him humble, dependent, and aligned with His will.
What a beautiful reminder that God knows exactly what we need to keep us close to Him. Sometimes His grace doesn’t remove the struggle; it strengthens us through it. God told Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you.” That means His grace is enough — more than enough — for every weakness, every hardship, every season of our lives.
When we are weak, God’s power shines the brightest. Our limitations become the very place where His strength is perfected.
This truth brings such peace to my heart. When God calls us — even when we feel unqualified, inexperienced, or uncertain — that’s exactly where He wants us to be. Our insufficiency creates space for His sufficiency. His power is displayed through our dependence on Him.
Just like Paul, we can rejoice in our weaknesses because they become a platform for God’s glory. The focus is no longer on what we can do, but on what He can do through us.
We see this same pattern all throughout Scripture. Jesus called disciples who had no formal training, no wealth, and no social status — yet by His grace, they turned the world upside down. God’s grace didn’t just call them; it sustained them. And that same sustaining grace is still at work in us today.
No matter what challenges or weaknesses we face, God’s grace is our constant source of strength. Like Paul, we can boldly declare:
“Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
Hallelujah!
Key Takeaways
Our weakness is not a limitation — it’s an invitation. God’s grace works best where our strength runs out.
Grace empowers us to fulfill God’s design. We can move forward confidently, knowing His power sustains every step.
Sustaining grace is our strength. Whatever situation we face, His grace is sufficient — always enough.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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