Bible Passage: “So to keep me from becoming proud, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger from Satan to torment me and keep me from becoming proud. Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away. Each time he said, ‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.’ So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.” (2 Corinthians 12:7b-9 NLT)
Scripture Reading: 2 Corinthians 12:1-10; 1 Peter 3:13-22
Have you ever encountered persistent problems that remain unresolved? Experienced a relational challenge that seems irreconcilable?
Conflict is normal, and healthy conflict can help us heal, reconcile, and move forward.
But what do we do when there is no resolution?
In chapter 12, Paul faced a “thorn” in his flesh. The Greek skolops implies a sharp object, like a stake, surgical instrument, splinter, or fishhook. It was pointed and persistent.
Theologians have debated the source of Paul’s thorn at length with much speculation as to the causes: physical issues (epilepsy, speech impediment, malaria, eye conditions, leprosy, or even migraines) to emotional problems (hysteria, depression, or deep frustration). Most likely, the thorn referred to was a relational one. The Greek sarx (typically translated as “flesh”) can imply persecution or troublesome people. Paul could be speaking metaphorically of the unrelenting and accusatory false apostles who undermined his ministry.
Paul petitioned the Lord three times to remove this “messenger of Satan” that tormented him. There was no resolution, but a simple reply from the Lord:
“My grace is all you need.”
Instead of a quick fix, God offered His all-sufficient grace to bear the burden and enable Paul to press on and fulfill his calling.
This contradicts a “health and wealth” gospel that can claim a declarative power to wish problems away. These teachings shortcut God’s grace and His ability to transform our pain.
What does a man do when he faces persistent pain points and thorns of conflict—stay, leave, or find a third way?
Paul’s third way was embracing the paradox: “When I am weak, then I am strong.”
Christ’s power is perfected in, not despite, weakness. This moves us from self-sufficiency to God-dependency. When we face persistent thorns, we don’t have to give up. We can keep showing up knowing His grace is enough.
Prayer: Lord, please help me trust You in the face of my persistent pain points. Please help me to know and live in Your all-sufficient grace daily. Amen.
Reflection: What are your thorns? Where have you faced persistent conflict or challenges? Has it reduced or refined your faith?
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