I Prayed
and Nothing Changed is a new book by Ste Casey. Part of
the book focuses on the Apostle Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 12:
“So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. Three time I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. 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 of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me” (vv. 7-9).
Casey makes the point that whatever Paul’s thorn was, it was
given to him by God for the purpose of keeping him humble. It seems that the
thorn (or “stake”) was specifically suited for Paul’s temperament, to keep him
reliant upon God.
When we face trials and difficulties, we can often forget
that God is still in control. Satan could not touch Job without God’s
permission (Job 1-2), and the same is true for us. We may also forget that God
uses all things for the good purpose of conforming us to the image of Christ (Rom.
8:28-29). If those truths were always solidly planted in our hearts, we’d
probably find it easier to “give thanks in all circumstances, [remembering
that] this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thess. 5:18).
It is hard to accept and remember that our specific trials
are those that God knows will best suit His purposes in our lives. I’ve often
thought “If I just had that
particular problem, I could handle it easily.” That’s probably why I have to
deal with different challenges instead. Successfully handling something in my own
strength is only going to lead to pride. But having to rely on God to uphold me
day by day makes me remember that it is His strength that is perfect, not mine.
Modern culture tells us we aren’t supposed to be weak,
dependent, or (heaven forbid!) uncomfortable. But that is not how God’s kingdom
operates. Casey writes:
“We learn from Paul that in the kingdom of the crucified and risen Lord, surrender is success, weakness is strength, and humility is greatness. There is no joy without pain, no victory without wounds, and no wealth without loss” (ch. 1).
When we go through seasons, or a lifetime, of struggle in
some area, may we cling to the truths that 1) God is good, 2) He is fully aware
of what we’re dealing with, 3) He has permitted it in our lives, and 4) He will
use it for our good and His glory. Therefore, we can rest in His sustaining
power and give thanks.
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am
your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with My
righteous right hand” (Is. 41:10).
© 2024 Dawn Rutan. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture are ESV and all images copyright free from pixabay.com. The opinions stated do not necessarily reflect the views of my church or employer.