"7 And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. 8 Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord that it might depart from me." 2 Corinthians 12:7-8 NKJV
The experience that Paul had in Heaven was an amazing happening, and one in which could well have caused him to boast about it. It's obvious that God allowed a messenger of Satan to come against him, in order to prevent Paul boasting and becoming euphoric.
A thorn in the flesh could be described as an intense, wearying difficulty or affliction. It affected Paul so much that, he pleaded with God three times that He would take it away. However, it remained, and instead of relief, Paul received God's grace - a strengthening process that would take care of all of his weaknesses. It was more than likely a learning curve for Paul, and he accepted it and wrote about how content he was to be weak with God's strength behind him. The Message version of v9 reads, 'I quit focusing on the handicap and began appreciating the gift.'
This piece of scripture leads us to consider the times that we also plead with God for release from ill-health, trouble and any other such problem. Most of us have something in our life that we wish wasn't there. It may be sickness or lack of finance. It could be seeking that perfect job or the chance to make a business successful. Whatever we try, we may come against a failure of some kind. Have you ever considered that God is allowing this to happen to you because He wants something from you first. This may only be your attention but, it may be something deeper.
Are you open to the fact that you may be doing something in your life that is blocking the way to freedom. You may have a thorn that is not acceptable to God. It may be something that you know about; something that you know you shouldn't be doing, but you still do it; and when you do, you feel bad about it afterwards.
Today, God is offering you His grace. He is not condoning what you do, not at all. However, He is offering you His grace and strength in order to address this and overcome it. His Word tells us, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness' v9. Whose weakness? Yours; He will help you to overcome this thorn that is continually there every day of you life.
If this is speaking to you right now, why not get before God and share your heart with Him. He knows already, but it is a useful exercise to speak with Him about it all. If you need to, confess your sin and receive His forgiveness. He knows how difficult the thorn is and even though, He may not take it away, He will help you to cope with it. It is a continuing learning curve for you.
Lord, I give this thorn to You and ask for Your help. Please allow Your grace and strength to come upon me, so that I am able to live each day in overcoming victory.
I ask in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Copyriight 2021 Grahame Howard
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