Most of us do well with short term trials. We are able to handle it magnificently and wax eloquent on how we are handling it. Generally, when we are part of a solid Christian church, many people share verses and words of encouragement. They call us. They visit us, they pray for us. Generally, we can look forward to when the crisis is past and although difficult, we persevere.

But what if the trial, the illness, the disease, is not temporary but lingering? What if it completely alters our lives and not only does not subside but even grows worse? What if it totally alters the way we live, causing us to become much less active and much more dependent on other people?

The trials of the Apostle Paul appear to be life-long. Not only did he receive a “Thorn in the flesh”(2nd Cor. 12:7) that appears to have been permanent, but the various trials Paul went through appear to have been life-long and consisted of extreme physical, spiritual and emotional trials. See 2nd Cor. 11:23-29.

Well, how well did Paul handle it? He pleaded with The Lord 3 times to take away the “thorn”! He was human, just like you and me. But instead of taking it away,Jesus said to him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness”. 2 Cor. 12:9. Folks, entering into this is a whole new cup of tea! Paul wanted to be healed! Jesus said “I have a better plan.” It would be easy to miss the key point. God’s goal for us is not to make plaster saints out of us but trophies of His grace that brings Him glory! The main point was that God’s plan for using Paul’s life for His glory meant turning Paul into a servant that had to completely rely on Christ for everything!

Was Paul locked up in prison for several years, unable to visit churches and evangelize? No problem! God had Paul write letters that became the living heart of the doctrine of Christianity and have blessed billions! Think that might have been a good plan?

Never equate fruit with activity. Only God controls the increase and He can use whatever He chooses to do it. If you are less active and struggling right now don’t get discouraged. God and His grace are sufficient for you! He can still use you, perhaps in ways you haven’t thought of, less impressive ways. But remember, when He does the evaluation He is the only legitimate fruit inspector!

One more point to those who are struggling. I believe the key to Paul’s perseverance was not his strength of character but the intimate closeness of His relationship to Jesus and that Jesus had promised to never leave Him. We have the same privilege as Paul, to learn that His grace is all we need.

Terry