Perfect Strength

I can't exactly pinpoint when it happened.  It may have been early last week when I wrote down all the questions I have for God, being honest with Him about some things I'd been stewing over (much like Naomi when she blamed God, or Hannah, or Job).  It may have been Monday as I drove to Kankakee and determined to NOT allow the devil to steal my joy ("Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name.  Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits..." Ps. 103:1,2 ESV).  Or, it may have happened as I have been listening to Kim Walker and experiencing, once again, the power and presence of the Holy Spirit in everyday life.  Whenever it was, I have begun to feel a peace that surpasses my understanding--that in the troubles of life, God is my refuge, my strength in times of trouble. 
I've prayed for a long time that God would "give me a break"--in my career, in my finances, in my singleness, in relationships.  Only in recent months has He begun to do that with friendships I've been blessed with in recent months.  The other areas?  Well, let's just say that we're still working on them.
"Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me.  But He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness."  Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.  For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities.  For when I am weak, then I am strong." (2 Corinthians 12:8-10, ESV)
As we walk this journey called life, the road will not be easy.  We all face difficulties--some major tests of faith and others minor irritiations that get under our skin (I've realized my troubles are nothing compared to the cancer, the marital difficulties, the childlessness that various friends are facing)--but the "thorns" God allows us to face are not the focus of our lives.  Our focus is to be on the One who gives us the "power that is made perfect in weakness." 

Gracious Father, thank You for the opportunity to praise You at all times, even when I don't "feel" like it.  When life doesn't make any sense at all, You are there in the midst of the confusion, offering shelter for a weary soul.  Forgive me for my short-sightedness, my selfishness, my self-pity that has hindered or damaged relationships.  Help me today, Lord, to see You in all things, to grow in understanding of what You are doing in and around me.  I want to live my life for You.