The Apostle Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” has sparked curiosity and discussion for centuries. What was it? Why did Paul have it? And most importantly, what can we learn from it?
Paul writes about this mysterious thorn in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, describing it as a “messenger of Satan” sent to torment him. Though we don’t know exactly what the thorn was—some think it was a physical ailment, others a form of spiritual or emotional struggle—its purpose was clear: to keep Paul humble and reliant on God.
Was Paul’s Thorn Like Job’s Suffering?
The comparison between Paul’s thorn and Job’s suffering is natural. Both endured trials that seemed to come directly from the enemy. Job faced devastating losses—his family, health, and wealth—while Paul’s thorn, though less explicitly described, was a constant source of frustration and weakness.
In both cases, Satan’s intent was to harm. But here’s the key difference: God allowed these trials for a greater purpose. For Job, it was to prove his faithfulness and refine his character. For Paul, it was to guard against pride and showcase God’s power through weakness. Whether the suffering was grand like Job’s or personal like Paul’s, God’s sovereignty was at work, bringing growth and glory from what seemed unbearable.
Our Own Thorns in the Flesh
If we’re honest, we all have “thorns” of our own. Maybe it’s a chronic illness, a challenging relationship, financial struggles, or inner battles with anxiety and doubt. Like Paul, we might plead with God to take it away, only to find that the thorn remains.
These personal thorns can feel unfair or even cruel at times. But Paul’s experience reminds us that they serve a purpose beyond our understanding. They bring us to the end of ourselves and force us to lean on God’s strength. They humble us, refine us, and ultimately remind us that this life isn’t about comfort but about becoming more like Christ. The reality is, God loves a broken person because only when someone is broken beyond human help will they give everything to him.
God’s Grace Is Sufficient
Paul’s revelation is both challenging and liberating: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). This isn’t just a nice saying; it’s a profound truth. God’s grace—His unearned favor and sustaining power—is enough to carry us through whatever thorn we face.
This doesn’t mean the pain disappears or that the struggle becomes easy. It means that in our weakest moments, God’s strength shines brightest. It’s not about what we can endure on our own but about how God sustains us when we have nothing left.
Finding Joy When We Don’t Get What We Want
Let’s face it: not getting what we want can feel crushing. We want healing, resolution, or relief, and when it doesn’t come, we’re tempted to feel defeated. But Paul’s story encourages us to shift our perspective.
Rather than seeing unanswered prayers as rejection, we can see them as redirection. God’s “no” often comes with a better “yes”—one that grows our faith, deepens our character, and brings Him glory. It’s not about ignoring our pain or pretending everything’s fine. It’s about trusting that God’s plans are bigger and better than our own.
Conclusion: Embracing the Thorn
Paul’s thorn in the flesh is a reminder that weakness is not failure. It’s a doorway to experiencing God’s power. When we face our own thorns, we’re in good company—alongside Paul, Job, and countless others who have found God’s grace to be enough.
So the next time you feel weighed down by your struggles, remember this: You’re not alone, and you’re not forgotten. God’s grace is sufficient, His power is perfect, and His love never fails. Embrace the thorn, lean into His strength, and let His grace carry you through.
Troy P Zehnder 