Because of a bodily ailment.

Galatians 4:13, You know it was because of a bodily ailment that I preached the gospel to you at first, and though my condition was a trial to you, you did not scorn or despise me, but received me as an angel of God, as Christ Jesus.

We want life, health, financial security and good times. Even so, is it just possible that God uses other circumstances to accomplish his purposes? Paul had an aggressive plan for spreading the Gospel, and yet he became ill and had to stop in Galatia with the result that many came to faith. We’re always ready to ask for things we deem to be good; are we also willing to ask for God’s best in every situation, despite the circumstances?

Use us today in your marvelous plan; help us to seek you in all that we do and say, to bring glory to your Name, O Lord!

ESV Lectionary