My Grace is Sufficient for Thee

2Cr 12:9

And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. (KJV)

Below is Matthew Henry's Commentary: We have an account of the answer given to the apostle's prayer, that, although the trouble was not removed, yet an equivalent should be granted: My grace is sufficient for thee. Note, (1.) Though God accepts the prayer of faith, yet he does not always answer it in the letter; as he sometimes grants in wrath, so he sometimes denies in love. (2.) When God does not remove our troubles and temptations, yet, if he gives us grace sufficient for us, we have no reason to complain, nor to say that he deals ill by us. It is a great comfort to us, whatever thorns in the flesh we are pained with, that God's grace is sufficient for us. Grace signifies two things:—[1.] The good-will of God towards us, and this is enough to enlighten and enliven us, sufficient to strengthen and comfort us, to support our souls and cheer up our spirits, in all afflictions and distresses. [2.] The good work of God in us, the grace we receive from the fullness that is in Christ our head; and from him there shall be communicated that which is suitable and seasonable, and sufficient for his members. Christ Jesus understands our case, and knows our need, and will proportion the remedy to our malady, and not only strengthen us, but glorify himself. His strength is made perfect in our weakness. Thus his grace is manifested and magnified; he ordains his praise out of the mouths of babes and sucklings.

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This is a passage that comes to mind when talking about being distracted by our "infirmities" (Marriage, Parenting, Finances, Physical or emotional pain, etc.) and not relying on or remembering that "God's Grace is Sufficient for Me". I also think there needs to be some clarity as to WHAT exactly the "Gospel" actually is. I think some people think it means anything that comes from the Bible is the Gospel message. As long as it is supported by scripture. Additionally, the word Grace doesn't always seem to have the same meaning as divine un-merited favor. But, it sounds like to me "divine niceness".

If we only have Christ or the Bible as "examples" of how to live then this is the statement that comes to mind by Dr. David Wells:

"It's a message that a god without wrath brought man without sin into a kingdom without judgment through Christ without a cross,"

Grace and Peace,

Chris
www.Reform-Shire.blogspot.com
Coram Deo!!!