While nothing will ever pale in comparison to the trials Paul went through, I can relate in a small way to what he was talking about in the book of Corinthians. I have this part of my life that I want to make disappear but not only am I in a position where I must embrace it daily but I hear the Lord telling me to continue in it and not run away. This is not something I want at all because it hurts so badly.
…because of these surpassingly great revelations. Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. ” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. -2 Corinthians 12:7-10
The constant reminder of the pain stays fresh on my mind and in my heart, I want to beg the Lord to release me and just lock this thing away but the Lord uses it to keep me grounded and humble. The moment my tears come I drop to my knees in worship and prayer. When my life starts speeding by again, it slows me down and grounds me. While this thorn is very painful, it keeps me closer to the Lord and understanding His perfect will.
No one really knows what Paul’s thorn was. His was caused by Satan but used for God’s purpose. Isn’t it amazing how God will use all situations for His purpose? God truly is good and in control. While we may never know the reason of our trials we do know that God has a perfect plan and purpose and instead of rejecting and fighting our trials we should be honored the Lord cares enough to guide our paths. “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. ”
Thank you for thorn Lord. I trust you and look forward to what you have in store for us. I pray that I can be humble enough to receive your instruction without hindering the Holy Spirit.