Paul’s ministry and spiritual authority were constantly under attack, even by those in the church. Much of the criticism was focused on all of the hardships and suffering and even physical struggles he had experienced.  As Paul defended his ministry, he focused not on his strengths but on his weaknesses. One such weakness is what he calls his “thorn in the flesh.” We don’t know exactly what it was, but we do know that it was chronic and debilitating. At times, it kept him from working and became a hindrance to his ministry. Paul prayed for its removal, multiple times. But it was not removed. 

What Paul did receive was the reassurance that God’s grace was sufficient for him and that God’s power was actually demonstrated most clearly in Paul’s weakness. It was a profound reminder that we are Carriers of a weakness that leads to strength. It’s a message that should give us courage and hope. As we recognize our own limitations, we are less tempted to try and accomplish that to which God has called us out of our own reservoir of strength. Embracing our weaknesses, deepens our worship, re-shapes our character, and challenges our pride. And it results in a strength we could never have possessed on our own. 

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