Observation:
Why didn't God take this thorn away? Paul needed the thorn so that he wouldn't become arrogant. Paul had received great revelations from God that no one else had seen. These revelations could easily lead to conceit and Paul being puffed up. Arrogance is a great repellent to those seeking Christ. I've met people who know the word of God and have received revelation, but have no meekness in which to draw people. Thus the thorn in the flesh that Paul received.
Application:
What are some of the hard things in this life that God is using as a thorn to teach you and mold you into His image? My self image, my need for approval, my health. Although I know the truth about who I am in Christ, that all I need is Christ's approval, and this body is temporary, my mind is bombarded with thoughts that are contrary to these truths. I pray and pray for God to take these thoughts away, but He doesn't. Even after a pretty intense refinement in this last month, the thoughts come. Here is what I have learned though, God wants me to to cast out those thoughts and cling to truth. He wants it to be so much of a habit for me that I experience the complete freedom that He has given me.
Prayer:
Father, Your word is truth, Your word is Jesus Christ. It is a lamp to might feet and the rock in which I stand upon. I pray that Your Holy Spirit would continually remind me of Your truth and cast out all thoughts that don't line up with Your word. Thank You Lord.
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