Digging Deeper

  But to keep me from being puffed up, I was given a thorn in the flesh, a messenger from Satan to torment me and keep me from getting proud.  2 Corinthians 12: 7b (NLT)

   Being a Christ follower is a challenge. Paul, a powerful minister of the gospel knew this long before I did. He faced many different hardships on a regular basis. But there was one specific thing God allowed to afflict him.

   We don’t know what the problem was, for sure. Some think it was poor eyesight (Gal. 4:13-15) some suggest malaria or epilepsy. We just can’t say because Paul doesn’t tell us. What we do understand is it was chronic, and debilitating. Even though he prayed for its removal, God saw fit that he kept it, though at times it was a hindrance to his ministry. It must have been difficult for Paul to own a weakness in the flesh. But, it helped him grow in grace, kept him humble and reminded him of his great need for constant contact with God. This “thorn” was a tool in God’s hand. It not only benefited Paul but those around him as they saw God working in his life.

   We may not want such a thorn but when placed in Gods hands it is a tool that brings about spiritual growth.

   I know from personal experience the times I grow the most are when I’m facing a challenge of some kind.  During one of the most difficult and frightening times in my life I met God on a personal level. I had prayed for healing. I received a grace sufficient to carry me through, because God said no, I saw Him work in amazing ways. Now I thank Him for that thorn.

  Since then new ones have come but I know His grace is sufficient for when I am weak then He is strong.

Father God, growing up is painful. Thank you for providing me with Your sufficient grace. I am weak but you are strong. Praise Your Holy Name!

by: Becky Hutzel