Strength

That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

2 Corinthians 12:10 (NIV)

The Apostle Paul wasn't some kind of sadist. He didn't enjoy weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions and difficulties for their own sake. Yet for Jesus's sake he was willing to put up with anything.

Why did Paul delight in troubles? Because he knew that Christ's strength was sufficient, even in spite of his weakness. Christ gave everything for us. So it's not too much for Him to ask everything of us.

Jesus went so far as to bless those who are persecuted. Of course, by itself, persecution is unpleasant. Yet Jesus assures us that our reward is great in heaven if we're persecuted.

Jesus was insulted even though He didn't deserve to be. We should endure insults for His sake, knowing that we have a heavenly inheritance to look forward too. His strength is made perfect in our weakness.

'Dear Lord, please help us even to delight in troubles for Your sake, because You are worth it. For Your glory we pray, amen'

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