2nd Corinthians 12: 7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.
Like Elijah who had to wait until he got a definite answer, Jesus also had to wait until God gave Him a definite answer, and it was a No. It was very tough for Christ to move forward with the agenda, but He did it for you and me, and in the process, He took No for an answer. The same answer of No occurred with the apostle Paul, who on three separate occasions, had prayed for healing, and the answer came back as a No.
He did not fret, nor would he turn back, and he would not allow his confidence in God to be shaken, just because he did not get what he asked for. Was it tough for Paul too, yes it was, especially since he had been given the gift of healing to the extent where those who received handkerchiefs from him would be healed, and yet, here he is, praying for his own healing, and the answer is a No.
2nd Corinthians 12:8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. 9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness…. Obviously, the answer was a no. Question: what should you do if after praying on several occasions, the answer comes back as a No? Should the person in question, continue to press their petitions to the throne of grace, or should you stand down, like Paul and Jesus with a humble, understanding spirit?
2nd Corinthians 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
May God add His blessing to the study of His word. “Good night” and God bless!