Paul's Thorn In The Flesh

Gary L. Grizzell
"There was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me" (2 Cor. 12:7). The Christian today can imitate Paul in overcoming temptation. Although Paul had many problems, he had one bigger than the others in living the Christian life, that is, his thorn in the flesh (2 Cor. 12:7). Nowhere in the New Testament writings does Paul suffer so much with a problem. In the context of the above mentioned scripture he has already mentioned his physical persecutions which had caused physical pain (2 Cor. 11:16-33). However, his thorn had caused him confusion at first.

If you are tempted to react improperly to a personal problem you face, you may follow Paul's example in overcoming temptation(s). The three-fold solution in overcoming temptation is to do as Paul:
  1. Recognize the problem.

  2. Admit you cannot overcome it of your own strength.

  3. Then lean on God in prayer and appreciation of His will — the New Testament.
Paul shared his burden with his fellow Christians. Likewise, we may inform trustworthy brethren of our problems, realizing we enjoy a close relationship with our brethren. "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ" (Gal. 6:2).

You must be a Christian to have such relationships. Have you obeyed the gospel? Hear (Rom. 10:17), Believe (Jn. 8:24), Repent, Confess Christ (Acts 8:37), Be baptized (Acts 2:38). Then, live faithfully as a Christian (Col. 1:23).



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