“And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:7-10)

Just when we think we are on top of everything, the Lord allows some undeserved trial or suffering to come into our life. For the Apostle Paul, this “thorn in the flesh” became a constant reminder of the futility of self-sufficiency and the wisdom of acknowledging Christ’s sufficiency, in all things.

The most insignificant daily chores can become sources of irritation… obstacles to our plans… thorns in our flesh, when we forget where our true strength lies. May we learn the lesson that Paul learned here. The thorn, though always present, did not have to overcome him. His own weakness became a resting place for the power of Christ!

Oh, to be saved from myself, Dear Lord
Oh, to be lost in Thee!
Oh, that it may be no more “I”
But Christ who lives in me!

Larry Gabbard