Introduction

Good morning, family!

Today, we'll be diving deep into 2 Corinthians 12:7. We're going to explore the reality of a thorn in our flesh, the purpose of it, and most importantly, the power of God over that thorn.

You know, Charles Spurgeon once said, "Trials teach us what we are; they dig up the soil and let us see what we are made of." Isn't that a powerful statement?

Let's take a look at the full Scripture passage:

"Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me."

This passage is a reminder that even the Apostle Paul, a man of great faith and works, endured struggles and challenges. But it's not just about acknowledging these thorns, it's about understanding their purpose and God's power over them.

The Reality

This metaphorical thorn, as described by Apostle Paul, represents the trials, tribulations, and challenges that we encounter. It's important to understand that these thorns are not just physical ailments or difficulties, but can also be emotional, mental, or spiritual struggles. They are the persistent issues that seem to prick us at our most vulnerable moments, causing discomfort and pain.

Our human frailty and our need for God's grace: The thorn humbles us, reminding us that we are not invincible or self-sufficient. We need God's strength and guidance to navigate through the trials of life. The thorn is not a sign of God's absence or indifference, but rather a tool used to draw us closer to Him. It's a reminder that we live in a fallen world, and as long as we are in this world, we will face challenges.

Not punishments from God: They are not indications of God's displeasure or wrath. Instead, they are part of the human experience, part of our journey of faith. They are opportunities for growth, for learning, for deepening our relationship with God. They are the refining fire that purifies us, making us more like Christ.

Our reliance on God's grace: It's through our weaknesses and struggles that His strength is made perfect. When we are weak, then we are strong in Him. The thorn keeps us grounded, keeps us dependent on God, and prevents us from becoming conceited or self-reliant.

A testament to our resilience and perseverance: It's a testament to the power of faith, hope, and love in the face of adversity. It's a testament to the transformative power of God's grace in our lives.

Understanding the reality of the thorn in our flesh: This is the first step towards dealing with it effectively. It's about acknowledging our struggles, not denying or running away from them. It's about facing them head-on, armed with faith and the assurance of God's presence and power in our lives.

Everyone has a thorn in their flesh: We are not alone in our struggles. Even the Apostle Paul, a man of great faith and works, had a thorn in his flesh. This should give us comfort and reassurance that we are not alone, and that God is with us in our struggles.

Pastor, here would be a good place to share a personal story about a thorn in your flesh, and how you've experienced God's grace and power in dealing with it.

The Purpose

In the context of 2 Corinthians 12:7, Paul's thorn served to keep him humble, to prevent him from becoming conceited due to the extraordinary revelations he had received ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO