How should we deal with others who are malicious, self-serving, controlling and/or mean?  The natural reaction is to become defensive or angry and get even!

Or we can choose to approach others from a Godly perspective.

Whatever their intentions are toward us – God can use it as a means to grow our dependence on Him and in Him.

We have an enemy, the same enemy that is God’s enemy – Satan.  Satan is subtle and many times – not so subtle.  He uses many ways to “get at” God and at times that is through God’s children.

How are we to view the challenges and the perplexities of life?  Shouldn’t we see them from a Godly perspective?

Paul had an amazing experience which God had given him.  Paul also had a “thorn in the flesh” which he implored God to take from him.  He asked three times.  God did not remove that “thorn.”  (2 Corinthians 12:7-8)

As we walk with God, He gives us insights into His word and into life.  A hurt that cannot be healed or a problem that is not going away – that may be a Satan induced “thorn” which God is using to keep us dependent on Him.

What is God’s answer to our dilemmas?
(NASB) 2 Corinthians 12:9 “… ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.’”

The Lord God of the Bible did not take the “thorn” from Paul, and He may not change your “thorn” either.

Amazing God!  From a Godly perspective He may continue to use your “thorn” to draw you closer to Him.  Then you will know, without a doubt that “the power of Christ” is living in you!
(2 Corinthians 12:9)

~ Take it to heart ~

From a Godly Perspective ~ Be well content with your “thorn,” with your weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecution, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when you are weak, then you are strong with Christ’s strength.
(2 Corinthians 12:10)