Something to think about…
Ihave often wondered about Paul's “thorn in the flesh.” In 2 Corinthians 12, he mentions it as messenger of Satan that tormented him. It was obviously a significant struggle in Paul's life or he wouldn't have written about it. However, he never said exactly what the “thorn” was, which has lead many to speculate through the centuries. Some believe it was a physical issue. It appears that later in life Paul began to lose his eyesight. It could have been that loss of sight or some other chronic illness. Maybe it was a person who made Paul's life miserable. If we're being honest, we've all probably experience a “thorn” or two in this world.
We don't know what the struggle was for Paul, but we do know that he pleaded with the Lord three times to take it away. Paul had tons of prayers answered throughout his ministry. He witnessed many miracles along the way. He saw significant demonstrations of God's power on display. He knew, without a shadow of a doubt, that God was able take care of this issue too. But the Lord chose not to remove this thorn. Instead, Paul heard these words, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
I don't know what Paul's “thorn in the flesh” was, but I can tell you that COVID has certainly been a “thorn” in my life and for our church family in recent days. I felt weak in many ways. And I know that several have asked the Lord to remove this thorn.
No one likes dealing with pain and difficulty if we can avoid it. No one likes having to sit on the sidelines in life. But, I have discovered what Paul found to be true. Even if He doesn't remove the struggle, God's grace is sufficient to carry us through. His power is made perfect in our weakness.
Paul goes on to declare: “Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:9-10)
What have you been pleading with the Lord to remove from your life lately? What thorns have been plaguing you? Maybe you're feeling pretty weak right now. Whatever you're going through, I pray that you hear the Lord whisper in your ear, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
May you experience His peace, power, and love in your life today!