Paul’s thorn in the flesh

[TonyChanYT]

2 Corinthians 12:

7 So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations,

That's the purpose of Paul's thorn: to keep him humble. God humbles everyone, including his prophets and servants.

a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me,

It was not literally a thorn. Satan used it to constantly harass Paul. God used Satan to keep Paul humble. It could be some kind of psychological attack. Perhaps that's why Paul wasn't being precise in describing it.

to keep me from becoming conceited. 8 Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. 9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”

The thorn was a weakness in Paul.

Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

This was how Paul dealt with it practically in contentment.

10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

He looked to the strength of God, not to the thorn.

 

[Pearl]

He looked to the strength of God, not to the thorn.

Amen!!