Comforting hugs 36

Comforting hugs 36 "..so I was given a physical condition which has been a thorn in the flesh, a messenger from Satan to hurt and bother me, and prick my pride. Three different times I begged God to make me well again. Each time he said, "NO, But I am with you: that is all you need. My power shows up best in weak people." Now I am glad to boast about how weak I am; I am glad to be a living demonstration of Christ's power, instead of showing off my own power and abilities. Since I know that it is all for Christ's good, I am quite happy about "the thorn," and about insults and hardships, persecutions and difficulties, for when I am weak, then I am strong~the less I have, the more I depend on Him" (2 Cor. 12:7-10). We live in a world that tells us that we can not appear to be weak. So it is very hard when something comes into your life that seems to knock your feet out from under you, like an illness. This illness can be physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual. Or a situation in your life, like an end of a job, lifestyle, or relationship. Many people will hide themselves away for fear of being seen as weak. I've heard people say, "Don't come visit me in the hospital, I don't want to be seen like this." Have you ever thought that in doing so, you are robbing yourself and others the gift of love, and comfort from God? Maybe you should. You see, God may be allowing this to come into your life, so that he can show his power through your illness or situation. But He will not be able to do that, if you don't allow him to.  You see, if you will allow God to bring power into the situation, He will give you the strength to endure it. I have seen it happen many times. I have watched people who are ill with conditions that they will not get well from, show great strength as they endure their illness. I have also seen people who have been dealt with very hard situations or loss, fight their way through it and into a new normal for themselves. All the while, these people gained wisdom and maturity that they did not have before hand.  I understand that none of likes pain, but we must remember that like pain when exercising brings strength to the muscles, pain can also bring strength to our minds, and souls, and both makes us stronger people in the end. So if you are experiencing pain of one type or another, today, please think about what I have said, and allow Jesus turn your weakness into strength.  Comforting hugs! Chaplain Toni Click here to Reply or Forward 0.67 GB (4%) of 15 GB used Manage Terms - Privacy Last account activity: 33 minutes ago Details