AUTHENTIC PRAYER

I begged the Lord three times to take it away from me. But he told me: “My kindness is all you need. My power is strongest when you are weak.” So I will brag even more about my weaknesses in order that Christ’s power will live in me. 2 Corinthians 12:8-9
No one knows exactly what plagued Paul, whether a severe tempta­tion, an intractable opponent, or a dire illness. Whatever his situation, the apostle pleaded with the Lord, pressing his case that God remove this thorn. Yet the Lord refused.
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God’s “kindness” or “grace” is the favor he shows undeserving people. It drives his actions toward you from start to finish. It blazes in full glory when you see it on display in Jesus (John 1:14). It rescues you from sin, raises you from death, and seats you in a place of privilege (Ephesians 2:5-8). It lets you approach God, stand boldly in his presence, and experience his Spirit living inside you (Romans 5:1-5). It teaches you to say no to evil and yes to God’s better way of life (Titus 2:11-12). And it brings you power when you think you can’t go on. Grace is a pure gift that loves you at your worst and carries you at your weakest.
Pray for grace in all its forms. 
Receive it when it isn’t what you want. 
The Lord’s kindness is strongest when you need it the most.