How can this be done without invading their privacy?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: A young family moved to our neighborhood after their child died. They keep their shades drawn and don’t answer their phone. We aren’t ministers or social workers, but we lost a child years ago and thought we might be a source of comfort. How can this be done without invading their privacy? – N.F.
A: We don’t have to be a minister or a trained counselor to help others. We just need to be available. When …
November 10, 2021
The Grace to Keep Going
Would you rather be rescued from suffering and affliction or be given the grace to go through them? Our natural inclination is to escape. That’s why Paul pleaded with the Lord to remove his “thorn in the flesh” (2 Cor. 12:7-8). But when he understood what God was doing through it, he gladly accepted his weakness. That’s because Paul saw the value of relying on God’s all-sufficient grace and having Christ’s power dwell in him.
Logically, you’d think that the Lord would want to make Paul’s life easier so his ministry would be unhindered, but that was not His priority. God’s goal was to humble Paul so his ministry would not be ruined by pride and self-reliance.
Perhaps you’re struggling with your own “thorn” right now, when all you see is the pain and difficulty. And since God’s purpose isn’t obvious, you keep asking Him to rescue you from the situation. Maybe it’s time to begin asking Him for the grace and strength to endure. It’s through your weakness that the Lord proves Himself strong in your life. His goal is not your comfort but spiritual transformation—along with your increased trust and complete dependence upon Him.
Bible in One Year: Acts 3-4
