“Even if I should choose to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain, so no one will think more of me than is warranted by what I do or say, 7 or 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. 8 Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. 9 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.”
2 Corinthians 12:6-9 NIV
“Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me.” – A humbling circumstance was given to the apostle Paul as a reminder that everything he accomplished was all because of God’s empowerment. God puts us in situations that keep us grounded in the fact that it is through His Spirit in us that we accomplish the task He has given (Philippians 2:13). The moment we think it’s all about us and our abilities, spiritual burnout will occur.
“The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful.”
Matthew 13:22 NIV
Thorns are obstacles. The first passage shows us the thorn that keeps us in His will. The second shows us the type that kills your faith. Which of the two mentioned has become a hindrance in your faith walk? Once you identify it, ask the Holy Spirit to help you get back on course.
Related read: After The Rain