"So to keep me from being proud, I was given A THORN IN MY FLESH."
What does it mean to be given a thorn in the flesh? Are you sight or hearing impaired? Do you have a disability of some kind? Are you less than perfect in the flesh? Listen to the One Truth Today, for what the world perceives as weakness may be something to keep you from being too proud. What you or others consider a curse, may be a blessing from the Lord. In the same scripture we see that a plea to the Lord was given three times. Each time the Lord said, "my grace is sufficient unto you". The Lord said, "my power works in weakness". So what man may perceive as a weakness or a thorn in the flesh may instead by the Lord's way of keeping us humble and meant to keep us from being proud!
Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice. Always does not mean some times or when you find it convenient. Even when you have a thorn in the flesh you are admonished to rejoice. Boast about your weakness so that the power of Christ can work through you. When you are seen as weak, even then you are strong because of the power of the Lord. When others see you or hear you life story, they will be moved by the Power of God in your life and how you are looking forward to perfection in Him. You will be a powerful example to others about God.
Being given a thorn in your flesh and then overcoming it by the Word and Power of God is a message for all people and at all times. It helps to explain that although the world sees bad things happening to good people, God's grace is all anyone needs to achieve eternal life and perfection in Heaven. All obstacles and thorns of this lifetime can and will be overcome by the power of God. Even though we may have to accept imperfections here, during our pilgrimage, a perfect and eternal life awaits us by the Grace of God. We must always focus on the eternal perspective and avoid living for the moment. This is an imperfect life on earth and there are thorns. If you have received some, thank the Lord for keeping you humble and not proud!
