Calendar

GLORYING IN ONE’S WEAKNESS (III)
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18
2 Corinthians 12:7-10
Job 2:1-13
 
“And lest I should be
exalted above measure …”
 
GLORYING IN ONE’S WEAKNESS (III)
 
The Lord knew that the unique experience of Paul in the third heaven could lead him to be puffed up. If Paul took glory in that experience, he would end up being no different from his accusers who sought self-promotion.
 
Therefore, to keep Paul humble, the Lord gave to Paul “a thorn in the flesh.” There are various views on the identity of this “thorn in the flesh.” Some of these views include: (1) Paul’s opponents who relentlessly attacked him; (2) demonic harassment (since this “thorn in the flesh” is also known as “the messenger of Satan”); (3) a physical ailment such as severe headaches, eye problems or other diseases. This writer tends to the third view. Whatever the identity of this “thorn,” it served to remind Paul that he was but a man, and not above those whom the Lord had placed under his care. All men are either sinners who are in need of grace, or sinners who are saved by grace.
 
Why then is the “thorn in the flesh” called “a messenger of Satan”? The way to understand this is to consider God’s permissive will in the book of Job. Job’s ailments were caused by Satan, though it was permitted by God. Similarly, Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” was caused by Satan, but it was permitted by God so that Paul might remain humble.
 
Despite Paul’s repeated requests, the Lord did not remove the “thorn.” God’s reply was simply that His grace would be sufficient for Paul. It was a lesson for Paul that without Christ he could do nothing (John 15:5). Paul must never think that he could achieve anything with his intelligence and strength.
 
Just like Paul, the Lord may at times permit difficulties to come into our lives to keep us humble. When we experience success, we may be tempted to attribute it to our own goodness. Big mistake! The difficulties in our lives will therefore keep us in remembrance of how much we need God. Therefore, embrace our crosses, and press on!
 
THOUGHT: How must I view the troubles and tribulations of life?
PRAYER: Father, keep me humble for Thy service.

Search