Hope in Hard TimesSample

Hope in Hard Times

DAY 6 OF 7

SUFFICIENT GRACE

Today's Key Verse: 2 Corinthians 12:9: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”

My friend Martha and I were flying overseas on a missions trip. But my stress was eating me up. My husband and I had five days to figure something out before our family became homeless. Knowing my situation, Martha asked me, “What’s the absolute worst thing that could happen?”

I described the most disturbing and preposterous scenario I could envision. Her next question rocked my world: “And do you believe God could give you the grace for that?”

Martha’s questions forced me to acknowledge a life-changing truth. Even if the worst happened, God would be right with me and my family to provide all we would need to persevere.

When Paul had an insurmountable problem, he asked God to remove it. Instead, God replied, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Our hope is not in quick fixes or things ‘somehow’ working out. Rather, our hope is in the sufficiency of God’s grace to hold and strengthen us through even the worst times.

Paul went so far as to say he delighted in difficulties giving him another chance to rely on God’s strength (v. 10). While I didn’t delight in my fears, I did draw courage knowing that God’s grace would be sufficient, no matter what I returned home to.

His grace is still sufficient. Seek the strength and courage you need from Him today.

Debbi Fralick

Prayer:

Father, You know the fear that grips my heart. Help me to take hold of Your promise of grace. You will provide what I need to endure. Amen

Day 5Day 7

About this Plan

Hope in Hard Times

These reflections and Bible reading notes from Our Daily Bread are designed to bring comfort, hope and encouragement to those facing hard times. Each article has been selected to address the worries, heartaches and doubts of life's most challenging seasons. May they serve as a reminder that the God of all comfort is with you and knows your every need.

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