Galatians 6:11
“See what large letters I have written to you with my own hands.”
This is one example that bible scholars use to support the notion that Paul had bad eyesight. Here's another supporting passage; "Because of the extraordinary greatness of revelation, for this reason, to keep me from exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of satan to buffet me-to keep me from exalting myself", (2 Corinthians 12:7). These revelations started when Paul was confronted by Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9). He was blinded temporarily. He was prayed for and something like scales fell from his eyes. Some say that permenant damage was done to his eyes.
Paul gives the reason for his difficulty, to keep him from exalting himself. That's why we have some difficulties also. We would swell with pride, become self important and there would be a distance between us and God.
The Lord wants us to be dependent on Him, moldable and open. Difficulties serve that purpose. Richie Parker is an individual that was born without arms. He was raised in the faith to believe that his state was part of God's purpose for him. He wasn't bitter or burdened. He figured out ways to do whatever he wanted. His disability helped him become a brilliant auto racing engineer which thrust him to stardom.
The point of this is not to despise our weaknesses. They may keep us from exalting ourselves or they may be the very thing that is used to better us.
This is easy to say, but more difficult to live with. There may be daily pain that has to be processed. Something like walking with a pebble in our shoe. It's not debilitating, but it's a constant distraction.
Paul further comments about his thorn in the flesh, '"Concerning this I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might leave me. And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me"', (2 Corinthians 12:8,9). It's not wrong to pray for the removal or to be healed from our condition. His answer will be yes, no or wait. For Paul it was no. We need to rest in that.
The Lord told him that His grace was sufficient for him. Some problems will remain, but the Lord will help. Regardless of our state, the Lord's grace will be sufficient for us also. We don't need to fear or worry. That's when our faith kicks in. It will be ok.
What's Paul's response? His problem will remain, but God's power will be present. He says, "I will rather boast in my weakness, so that the power of Christ will dwell in me." He is not only is content, but jubilant to the point he will brag about his weakness. That's quite a shift.
Today's passage is close to that. He's not ashamed of his writing. It's what must be if the Lord will use him.
Lord, thank You for Your healing and restoration, but also thank You for the times You don't. That means Your grace is sufficient for us also. We can rejoice that Your power and grace will not only carry us, but empower us to do You will. Help us to be humble and dependent upon You.