2
Corinthians12 and 13 – Our thorn in the Flesh
Paul had experienced a great revelation from God on
the road to Damascus. To keep him from being “exalted above measure” he had
been given a “thorn in the flesh.” Most likely this was some physical ailment
that constantly afflicted him. Many people face chronic pain or physical
afflictions. They may think that if God would heal them they would be much more
valuable and effective in ministry. But God’s power is often best revealed when
He works through human weaknesses. His “strength is made perfect in weakness.”
To be perfect, strong, and capable or at least to be perceived that way is the
desire of the human heart. Because God sometimes turns a person’s life upside
down, the pursuit of perfection can be a bad thing. Too often, “perfect”
strong, and capable people try to do everything on their own, they don’t feel a
need for God, or they forget to rely on Him for the results.
Those who see their dependence fully realize that they
can accomplish nothing on their own. They need God to work through them. In
that way the task is accomplished, and God receives all the glory. That is why
Paul could say, “I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of
Christ may rest upon me.” Paul could even take pleasure in those weaknesses,
because only when he was weak could he really be strong in Christ. Every person
has areas of strength and weakness. How wonderful that God can use both! He
equips us with strengths to serve Him humbly, and He works through our weakness
so that we never forget His power.
Paul had a passion for ministry that would put most
any other believer to shame. He tirelessly travelled, taught, wrote letters,
and prayed. His legacy forms most of the New Testament. His words comfort,
encourage and guide believers even today. Clearly Paul had many strengths and
God used him well for the kingdom.
When Paul said in Gal. 4:14 “that if possible, you
would have plucked out your own eyes and given them to me” many people would
assume his thorn in the flesh was his eyes having been weakened when he was
cured from being blinded on the road to Damascus. The point is not to identify
the thorn but to learn how Paul ministered despite it. When Paul prayed for
healing, God ‘s answer was that His grace is sufficient. The only requirement
for service in God’s kingdom is a humble and obedient heart. He will do the
rest.
Please read the chapter listed so that you can
understand God’s Word better.
If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God
Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.
Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.
Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.
J, Vernon McGee Through the Bible
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