SCRIPTURE
"So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me." (2 Corinthians 12:7-9)
OBSERVATION
Paul's thorn was a way to temper his mountain top experience of receiving revelation from God. It reminded him not to think of himself more highly than he ought. "I must be pretty great in God's sight. Look at this experience. I'm Paul and I'm entitled to a life of ease." He obviously prefered that it be taken away. It harassed him and caused him pain and frustration. He didn't say the thorn was a good thing. He did recognize the thorn was not caused by God but He was able to bring about good through it. God had a bigger purpose. He wanted Paul to rely on His grace and not obtaining a pain free life. This humbling thorn was used by God so Paul would not rely on his circumstances but on the grace of God in the midst of his circumstances. He realized he did have something to brag about and it wasn't himself or a life that was well ordered and free from pain. It was about his weaknesses because they were the very points where the power of Christ came through and if he was going to boast it was going to be about the Lord.
APPLICATION
My weaknesses, thorns, are opportunities for God's grace and power to shine. These tough situations are ways to keep me in check. When life is good I tend to take the credit or think somehow God owes me. He is supposed to remove the thorns. However, when I get stuck by a thorn I'm reminded it's not about me. It's all about Christ. Where I lack, Christ's power can be demonstrated. I can live life always looking for the elusive "someday." Someday when there's enough money, time, no stress, etc. But God wants me to look for his grace in today. Relying on his strength and power in my weakness, now that is something to brag about.
PRAYER
Lord, help me to see your grace and power in my weaknesses and in spite of the thorns that stick in my life. Amen.
