The Blog

We don’t know exactly what Paul’s thorn in the flesh was because he does not tell us. Some scholars have suggested that it was malaria, epilepsy, or a disease of the eyes. Whatever it was, it was chronic in nature and was a debilitating problem. This thorn was a hindrance to his ministry, and he prayed for its removal; but God refused. Paul was a self-sufficient person, so this thorn must have been difficult for him. Three times Paul prayed for healing and did not receive it. Though he did not receive healing, he received things of greater value. He received greater grace from God, stronger character, humility, and an ability to empathize with others. We do not know why some are spared from afflictions and others are not. God chooses according to his divine purposes for each of our lives. Paul is living proof that holy living and courageous faith do not ensure instant physical healing. We must recognize that nothing separates us from his love and that our spiritual condition is always of greater value than our physical condition.

2 Corinthians 12:7-8
7 or because of these surpassingly great revelations. Therefore, 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.