His Grace is Sufficient

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.

2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV

I was eight weeks out from a tough shoulder surgery. Finally able to drive, I drove to my friend’s house for some comfort food and girl time. Nourished by her wonderful cooking, we sat on the couch to share our hearts and our day. Not far into our time my friend stopped me and said, “You’re in a lot of pain, aren’t you?” I nodded with tears filling my eyes. She then came over and kneeled by me and began to pray.

As my friend prayed, I quietly heard my Father speak, “My grace is sufficient.” Honestly, not what I wanted to hear. I believed I would have instantaneous relief from my pain, a shortcut to the next season, and not have to push through therapy and progress for the next 6-8 months. I desired physical strength instead of weakness. But his power is made perfect in my weakness. And ultimately, it’s his power and grace that I want to be evident in my life.

Before my surgery, I prayed and was prayed for, and believed wholeheartedly that God could circumvent this painful journey and heal me if He wished. It’s all throughout Scripture. James 5:14-16 tells us to call upon the elders to pray for us. And in Mark 5:34, Jesus heals a woman who had been sick for 12 years. But I also know that we are his vessels, his clay, not just when it’s convenient or easy, but also when it’s hard. Isaiah 64:8 and Romans 9:21 speak of God the Father being the potter and we are the clay. We are made for his purpose. Who am I to say how he uses me?

God spoke to Paul about his grace, similar to his gentle words to me while at my friend’s house. Although I can’t say I’m as bold as Paul to be content with weakness just yet, I am embracing his grace; the free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings (Oxford Dictionary). I am relying on his grace daily as I continue on my healing journey.

Now to share some of the fruit of my journey. I’ve developed a beautiful, sweet friendship with someone I’ve known for a long time, but through shared pain and surgeries, we’ve become kindred hearts. Without this commonality, this friendship might not have been nourished. I’ve also been going to physical therapy twice a week and have had beautiful conversations with my therapist about what a real relationship with God looks like as opposed to following religious steps. My husband, who lost his job a week before Christmas in 2025, was available to help me during my hard recovery after surgery. He even learned how to put my hair in a ponytail! I’m so grateful for this unexpected blessing and his tender care for me. I’m grateful for God’s care in shaping my character and continuing to use me in his work and purpose.

I have believed before, but now even more wholeheartedly, that “I am convinced and confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will [continue to] perfect and complete it until the day of Christ Jesus [the time of His return]” (Philippians 1:6 AMP).

Questions For Reflection:

How does knowing God’s grace is sufficient help you face difficulties in your life?

Is there a situation you need to trust God to bring to completion for you? Write out a prayer asking Him to help you hold on to your faith while you wait.