7 To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me.
Our tendency to take pride in our accomplishments is great, even when our accomplishment is not great. I think of the kids in school today who get a prize for coming in 13th place in a race. Mediocrity celebrated. No wonder we lag behind the world in science and mathematics education. When what we celebrate is nothing more than participation, we create young people who think that they are the center of the universe, that the world revolves around them, and that no matter what they do, they are the best. But it does not stop in elementary school. It is pervasive is so many areas of life. Look at the TV series Office. Mediocrity celebrated humorously. Paul had something to boast about, but chose not to. In fact God protected Paul by giving him some kind of physical ailment to remind him not to boast. Paul is not specific in spelling out the ailment because if our ailment didn’t match his exactly, we would dismiss his experience as an example for us. We would make an excuse to not admit our weakness, but that admission is where strength begins. When we start at the point of our need, God is able to empower us beyond our wildest dreams. It is in my weakest weaknesses that I recognize the power of God. The amazing thing is that God can use Satan to accomplish His purpose in us! Imagine that, Satan is just a screwdriver in God’s toolbox, incapable of independent action. Satan must get permission to be active in our lives, either our permission or God’s. If we give him permission, the end will be destruction. If God gives him permission, the outcome can be greater holiness, greater God-likeness. So today when you are faced with your thorn, thank God and receive His power. Humbling, yes, but life and freedom result.
The Arnold Journey 