Comfort in times of trouble

​7-11-21
Today’s devotion is based on 2 Corinthians 12:7, “So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited.”
The apostle Paul had a serious problem. There was something wrong with his body, and he suffered because of it. We have no idea what this physical problem was. All we know is that this physical problem was serious, and the burden on him was profound. It should come as no surprise that Paul prayed about this physical problem. Paul asked the Lord to remove his thorn in the flesh. And, in love, the Lord answered Paul’s prayer. His answer was “No.”
What is the thorn in your life? Perhaps it is a chronic illness, chronic pain, a lifelong struggle with depression, or a deep emotional scar from an old wound. Maybe it is a thorn only you and your Lord understand. For the time being, if the Lord has chosen to leave that thorn in you, just remember—he does this in love. It may be to give you perspective or to nurture your compassion for others. It may be to keep your eyes fixed on the One who has washed your sins away at the cross and who lives to fulfill his every promise to you.
Please pray with me the prayer for today: Lord, when you choose to let a painful thorn remain, remind me that even that thorn overflows with your love. Amen.