09/02/2026
Has Pastor Smith’s message from Sunday been lived and carried out in your life this week?
If you’re wondering what we mean, take a moment to read the recap below and reflect on Sunday’s message, “God’s Grace Is Enough (For Me).”
From 2 Corinthians 12:7-10.
There are things in life that cause perturbation, things that disturb us, trouble us, and even bring pain. But sometimes those very things are permitted by God because He is using them to bring something out of us. And some things simply have to be lived out and carried out.
God has a predetermined purpose and plan, ultimately designed for our good. Romans 8:28 reminds us that all things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose.
Five Things to Remember:
1. God has a predetermined purpose and plan designed for our good.
2. God’s predetermined plan may include what we regard as painful to our person.
3. Purposed pain will produce power.
4. Those willing to please God must be willing to bear the weight that comes with God’s plan.
5. When I hold on to God’s unchanging hand, I can trust that whatever He is taking me through is part of His plan.
Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us that God knows the plans He has for us.
So Paul’s thorn became a tool for ministerial maturation, but initially a puncture to his pride. Ultimately, it’s not about us, it’s about Jesus!
So:
Call on the Lord.
Hear from the Lord.
Trust in the Lord.
He’ll shift you, strengthen you, mature you, and prepare you!
Yes, it may be painful, but don’t let your “THINKING” cause you to forget about your THANKING!
Praise is our weapon!!!
And when God doesn’t remove the thorn, He gives us what we need to endure it:
It’s called GRACE.
“My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”
— 2 Corinthians 12:9
Maybe this week has brought some discomfort, stretching, shifting or even some pain. Remember: just because it hurts doesn’t mean God isn’t in it. Sometimes what we’re asking God to move is the very thing He’s using to move us.
Either way..His grace is enough.