Limping

'...the hollow of Jacob's thigh was out of joint...' Genesis 32:25 KJV
God uses people such as Jacob who, spiritually speaking, walk with a limp. After years of wrestling with stubborn issues, they've been radically changed by God's power; now they're able to minister to those they couldn't have reached before. God also uses people such as Paul, who said, '...there was given me a thorn in my flesh...to torment me.' (2 Corinthians 12:7 NIV) When Paul asked God to remove this thorn, God said, '...[No,] My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness...' (2 Corinthians 12:9 NKJV) No doubt, that's the last thing Paul wanted to hear. Understand this: God loves to use people who walk with a limp, or who are locked into thorny situations they can't escape. Why? Because when they're blessed they don't become arrogant like some who think they deserve it. They're a little warmer, and a little more willing to reach out and embrace others. Today God is looking for people with enough compassion to ask, 'How are you?' then stop long enough to listen to the answer! When people have been hurt they need extra love and attention. They need to be held a little closer and prayed over a little longer. After all, that's what God did for you; now it's your turn to do it for somebody else. And yes, you'll have to be patient and overcome their reluctance to trust you. Because they feel betrayed and 'used' they struggle with doubts and resentments. But don't give up on them: 'Love never fails...' (1 Corinthians 13:8 NKJV) If you keep loving them, God will use you to bring them healing and hope.