Three times in definite, dedicated, and sincere prayer, Paul asked the Lord to deliver him from this affliction, to remove it from him; but the Lord refused, telling Paul that His grace was sufficient to support him and uphold him under any trial or circumstance. Besides, God's strength and grace are never more glorified or appreciated than when we are made to realize and feel our own weakness and inability! Therefore, Paul said, "I will all the more rejoice in and accept my weaknesses and infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon and be revealed in me...for when I am weak in myself and aware of my inability, then the Lord reveals His grace, His wisdom, and His power; AND THIS IS MY REAL STRENGTH!"
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