God's Grace

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 (NIV)

Just finished a Bible Study on God's Grace. Learned some amazing things, however, one thing which stood out to me was the verse above.

As I did some word studies on 2 Corinthians 12:9, here is what I learned.

He has said: originally, “lay down to sleep,” used of laying an argument to rest, moving to a conclusion 
sufficient: be content, be enough, suffice,
power: ability to perform; power through God’s ability
perfected: reaching the end (aim); it is well-illustrated with the old pirate’s telescope, unfolding (extending out) one stage at a time to function at full-strength (capacity effectiveness); reaching the capacity effectiveness
weakness: without strength; refers to an ailment that deprives someone of enjoying or accomplishing what they would like to do, focuses on the handicaps that go with the weakness
may dwell: to dwell in a pitched tent; to pitch (live in) a tent (residence!)

 Here's my translation of the verse:

God ended all questioning or arguments. Nothing more needs to be said, period—His grace is enough so that I can be content. God is the source of power which allows me to reach true and full effectiveness through my weakness  (and all it keeps me from doing); so that God's ability will take up residence within me. 

Living with chronic pain, I fully understand "weakness". However, as I studied the meaning of that word, I learned it meant more than "without strength". It takes into account all handicaps that go with my weakness. God fully understands that when there is weakness, there are things which can't be done.

However, God gives me His grace so that I'll be satisfied and content, knowing that God provides all the ability necessary for me to reach my full capacity of effectiveness. WOW! 

There are many things which my chronic pain prevents me from doing, however, God's grace and power are much greater than my weakness, and He supplies the power to accomplish His will.

Even with the limits my pain creates, I can still be effective—because of God's power and grace!

My limitations only make God's grace and power more evident, because there is NO WAY I could do it on my own! 

As I go about my day, if I continue to rely on God's grace letting His power take up full residence in me, I will create a positive day—as I will be fully effective for Him! WOW!