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Constant Reminders-Thorns

And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure- 2 Corinthians 12:7


Here we see Paul, discussing the thorn in his flesh.  There have been many theories as to what exactly this thorn was.  They range from depression to malaria and everything in between.  Some say it was psychological, some say it was physical, while yet others believe it had to do with his memories of his past.   Let's just say we do not know exactly what it was.  What we do know is that Paul dealt with some issue on a near continual basis.  Paul said that this was an attack from Satan, but it was also used of God to keep him humble.

I guess my question is this:  What is your thorn in the flesh?  Is there something in your life that you cannot pray away?  I'll bet there is.  It may be a physical ailment, or it may be your past lurking, waiting to pop up.  Whatever it is you can only have two attitudes about it.  You can either say "God is punishing me", or "God is reminding me".  Paul found after pleading with God that this was not something God was willing to expel from his life. 

Understand, these thorns are not sins.  God will not keep sin in your life to keep you in check.  He abhors sin, and will release you from its bonds.  However, these thorns in the flesh can be repercussions from your past sins.  Maybe, like me, you have not always walked the straight and narrow, and you suffer some physical ailment because of you past lifestyle.  I suffer with gout.
 

 This is how God gave me this topic today because I am having a gout attack.  I know why this is popping up right now.  God needed to remind me how far He has brought me in a short period of time.  Ambition has lately become my god of sorts as I constantly seek out goals.  God has reminded me through prayer and a little pain that His presence and approval are the only goals worth having.

I want to encourage you today that you are not alone if you are long suffering.  You may have viewed these ailments as punishment.  I say it is time to see them as God's foothold in our lives when we do not allow Him to work where He says there is work to be done.


 God is powerful, just, and righteous.  If you find yourself blaming God, it is time for some serious introspection.  We can have joy, even during periods of pain and sorrow, because joy comes from God.  It is an internal state of being and not an emotion controlled by external circumstances.

Today I say take joy in your thorns, as Paul did.  Remember, anything suffered in the name of God is rewarded in Heaven.  Have a blessed day.

Bro. Russell

Comments

  1. AnonymousJuly 31, 2012 at 5:05 PM

    thank you Russell...I needed this today. I love your writting, I have enjoyed all your post. God Bless You & Yours...hope You fell better soon. Love, Aunt Sharon

    ReplyDelete

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