Day 204/260: Read 2 Corinthians 12

Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” has baffled commentators for centuries. Some believe this “thorn” had reference to some physical malady such; guesses include headaches, epilepsy, or trouble with his eyesight. Others believe the “thorn” was some sort of temptation that the apostle faced. A third view is that the “thorn” came from the outside—opposition to Paul’s ministry by Judaizing teachers and other enemies of the cross.

The correct view we cannot know for certain in this life. One thing we do know is this: whatever Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” was, the grace of Christ was strong enough to get the apostle through it. “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”

There are times that we struggle in this life, but Christ is strong enough to get us through it. No matter how weak we may become—physically or spiritually—we can rely on the grace of Christ to comfort us.

Let us not complain about the troubles we face, but look to Jesus and His strength for help. Let us take on the same attitude that Paul expressed when he wrote, “Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

Memory (Fill in the blanks)

2 Corinthians 13:5. Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the ______________. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you are ______________.

Pray

Pray for the strength of Christ to get you through the day despite your weaknesses.