Many of you may be familiar with Apostle Paul’s expression, “a thorn in the flesh,” the Christian equivalent of Achilles’ heel – a weakness, a downfall, an irritating situation or physical ailment that one has to live with. Something that can only be managed and not get rid of.
But Paul was not just venting about his weak eyesight in 2 Corinthians 12:7 when he said, “Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me.”
His intention was to teach all of us a huge lesson. Those weak spots in yourself, be they physical ailments, bad habits, lack of skills, or whatever else holds you back, were allowed by God in you for your own good. That’s right. The very thing that you see as a weakness actually helps propel you forward in your character.
You know the story of poor King Nebuchadnezzar in the book of Daniel chapter 4. He became so conceited about his achievements, God had to humble him to give him a chance at perceiving the real Source of wisdom, skills, and wealth. Nebuchadnezzar ended up being thankful for his thorn in the flesh, as humiliating and humbling as it was.
So the next time you are tempted to get discouraged because of your thorn in the flesh, remember that God’s plan was for you to live with that thorn and through that thorn and in spite of that thorn.
Perception is reality. I distrust my own perception of things – but not enough. I pray to remember to pray this daily, “Open my eyes that I may see.”