Summary:

This message from 2 Corinthians 12 examines Paul's struggle with pride and spiritual authority. Paul references an extraordinary heavenly vision but refuses to elaborate, saying "there is nothing to be gained by it." Instead, he boasts in his weaknesses and a persistent "thorn in the flesh" that kept him humble. When Paul pleaded three times for its removal, Christ responded, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." This passage teaches us to restrain from elevating our spiritual experiences above Scripture, embrace our limitations as opportunities for God's power to shine, and serve others humbly without strings attached. Our weaknesses aren't obstacles to ministry—they're divine appointments where Christ's strength becomes unmistakable.

Question:

How might your perspective on personal struggles and limitations change if you truly believed they were divine appointments for Christ's power to be displayed in your life rather than obstacles to overcome? In what specific area of weakness could you stop asking God to remove the thorn and instead ask Him to reveal how His grace is sufficient right where you are?