What Paul referred to as “infirmity of the flesh” here was likely the same thing he called “a thorn” in his flesh in 2 Corinthians 12:7. There are debates about the nature of that infirmity without any real consensus. However, the infirmity or thorn was not hidden from Paul’s audience. The proof of this is Galatians 4:14 – “And my temptation which was in my flesh ye despised not, nor rejected; but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus.” (KJV). The Galatians recognised it, yet they refused to let it create a barrier between them and the Apostle’s ministry.

we don’t have to wait until our problems are gone to fulfill our calling…Even in the imperfect state, the grace of God can overshadow us and make a difference.

Despite the infirmity, Paul still testified of mighty things that God did by him. He worked great miracles by the Spirit of God among the people. This gives us something to reflect on: we don’t have to wait until our problems are gone to fulfill our calling. Years ago, a young lady who was in the final stages of cancer showed up on America’s Got Talent and wowed the audience with her performance. When she was interviewed later, she said you don’t have to wait until there are no more problems before you choose to be happy. Same with our calling. Don’t wait until everything is perfect before stepping into what God has called you to do. Even in the imperfect state, the grace of God can overshadow us and make a difference.