For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities.

2 Corinthians 12:10

Forms of the Greek word translated as “content” in the above verse are sometimes translated as “pleased,” as when the Father is “well-pleased” with his Son (Mark 1:11). It is one thing to be content with the trouble God permits in our lives, but pleased? Really?

Paul could be content, even pleased, because God told him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). In power made perfect in weakness, Jesus suffered and died to save us. Jesus was content, even pleased, to humble himself in obedience to his heavenly Father. Suffering physical trials and earthly trouble, we too can be pleased because God’s grace is enough, and his perfect power is at work in us.