Living the New Life

Scripture Verse:
“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.’” — 2 Corinthians 12:8-9a (NIV)

Paul’s thorn in the flesh was a constant reminder of his limitations. Despite pleading with God to remove it, Paul learns to accept its presence as a divine tool to keep him humble and reliant on God. This thorn, though a source of suffering, becomes a means through which God’s grace and strength are magnified.

Personal Encouragement:
We all have our “thorns”—those difficult circumstances or limitations we wish would disappear. Yet, God allows them to prevent self-reliance and spiritual arrogance. Instead of viewing them as hindrances, see them as opportunities for deeper dependence on Him.

Practical Action Step:
Reflect on a personal “thorn” that you have been struggling with. Rather than praying for its removal, ask God how He wants to use it to draw you closer to Him. Seek His perspective and grace to endure and thrive amidst it.