Dear Church,

In 2 Corinthians 12:7, Paul writes, “Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me.”  Paul describes a mysterious affliction, something that tormented him deeply. The Greek word for messenger refers to an angelic being, suggesting a spiritual battle.

While the Bible does not define exactly what Paul’s thorn in the flesh was, many interpretations exist. Some believe it was a physical illness or disability. Others suggest intense spiritual warfare or demonic oppression. Some say it was a temptation or struggle, while others believe it was difficult relationships or betrayals, possibly from the Judaizers who opposed his ministry.

But I don’t think Paul’s intention in writing this was for us to focus on the thorn. Wrong focus leads us nowhere. Instead, Paul wants us to focus on God’s response.

Paul pleaded three times for God to remove it. But in 2 Corinthians 12:9, Jesus responded:

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”

Jesus was telling Paul, “My grace and power will rise above what you can handle.” The truth is, where there are no struggles, no battles, no temptations, and no hardships, there is no need to rely on God’s power. Victory only comes after a battle.

The greater the battle, the greater the testimony of victory.

So, if you’re facing a fight right now, and you have asked the Lord to take it away, perhaps this is not the time to ask God to remove the struggle. Instead, it may be time to seek His grace, His power, and His provision to sustain you. God is glorified when we face what is impossible in our own strength and lean fully on His grace & strength.

Don’t waste your battle, let it be the place where God’s grace becomes visible, and strength is made perfect in your weakness.
 
Be Encouraged,
Mathews