In the Bible, there is an example of a “thorn” that God allows in the apostle Paul’s life. We all have at least one thorn in our lives, it can be a person, a problem, or circumstances.

In 2 Corinthians 12:7, the apostle Paul writes, “…in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. ⁸ Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. ⁹ But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. ¹⁰ That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

As you encounter thorns in your life, try to focus on what can be learned from their presence. We know that God uses all things for our good, (Romans 8:28). If there is a thorny person or situation in our life, we can grow from it. We can focus on learning from it rather than complaining. We can increase our dependence on God to get us through. Like Paul, we can certainly pray that God would remove it. But also like Paul, God may say to our request, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 

Let’s pray. Father in heaven, when we encounter thorns of every kind, help us to stay focused on You and to draw on Your strength. Help us to learn what we need to grow in You. Fill us with strength and patience and Your peace. Help us to walk by faith and Your Word. Help us to be an example of Your love to everyone we encounter. Lord, help us to grow in You each day. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.