Every so often, every now and then, there is a thorn that comes to help teach you a lesson or two. Even though it is hard to comprehend when you are in the midst of the experience with the thorn, it is vital (extremely important) that you remember, you are not going through the experience all alone. You may feel alone, but you are not alone. The thorns that you experience time and again are only going to make you stronger if you focus on overcoming and not being consumed by them. As you look back over your life, can you identify the thorn experiences you had and how you overcame each one? You are still here that means you made it through. What THORN(S) are you facing today?
You read about the Apostle Paul in the Bible wherein he describes his experience with the "The Thorn in the Flesh" which is meant to be (and is) an encouragement for you and I whenever we are faced with all type of thorns. "And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong." (2 Corinthians 12:7-10) I was also reminded as I read this verse that God wants us to learn to wholly depend upon Him--His Power to get you through. Hence I wrote yesterday, if you truly trust God, stop stressing... about__________ (fill in the blank)! Go through! Don't stop moving!
God reminded Paul that he wasn't alone... as you and I are reminded that we are not alone. Even in moments where you are physically alone--remember, even then, you are truly not alone. In John 16:32 Jesus said: "Indeed the hour is coming, yes, has now come, that you will be scattered, each to his own, and will leave Me alone. And yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me." He was physically alone... but was not completely alone (or lonely). Sometimes the "world" (everyone) seems to have abandoned you when you have a thorn in your flesh... but the world is not who can help you get through this, only Jesus... Granted, God uses people to help us get through some experiences, sometimes, it's just you and Him... So, take heart and be encouraged that there is an end to every thorn experience.
