UNCOMMEN: On The Waiting ListIsampula

Thankful for the Thorn

So far, we have talked about what we should be doing while we wait. Sometimes we need to be humbled before we are given something. In our last lesson, we learned that we aren't entitled to anything. Today we continue our series with a story from Paul about waiting. 

"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

You may have heard this passage of scripture. It's a famous passage loved by millions of people for a good reason! It's such an encouragement to see someone like Paul, the writer of much of the New Testament, had real struggles. 

Initially, Paul asked the Lord to remove the thorn. He did this three times and each time, the Lord refused his request. God uses our sins and struggles to point us to Christ for strength. "My grace is sufficient for you..." If only we could all live this out more truly. God's grace is enough! We don't need worldly things; just His salvation. 

Furthermore, Paul's response is an incredible way to lead others toward Christ. He doesn't fight the Lord's response but instead finds joy and acceptance in it. "I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses."

So how does this apply to our topic of waiting for the right woman? If you take nothing else from today's study, I would want it to be this: God may have put this hurdle (not having a girlfriend) in your life to glorify Himself. Whether it is to help others who are going through a similar situation, or maybe to focus you on furthering His kingdom. Everything God does is on purpose and within His plan. Are you thankful for the thorn?

Questions:

1. Have you taken your "thorn" to God in prayer? Leave it at the cross and rejoice that God is enough to help you overcome!

2. Have you found a way to be joyful in pain? Have you found a person you can lean on for help?

Challenge: 

Make a list of all the things that you can do to further the Kingdom of God while you are single and tackle one of them this week. Read Psalms for encouragement through the hurdles.

Scripture Vers:e:
2 Corinthians 12:7-10