Monday, January 19, 2009

God Bless the Thron in My Flesh

Do you have something in you life that is a constant irritant? That wonderful person you work or live with who grates on your nerves? A physical pain or ailment that is always with you. Do you suffer from blinding headaches, financial woes, neighbor problems, etc.? Have you ever thought if I could just get rid of this, life would be so much better. Have you prayed that God would change your situation, bring you healing, help you with that mountain of unpaid bills, move that obnoxious neighbor. Well, you are in good company. The Apostle Paul had a "thorn in the flesh." We know it was allowed to come to him by means of the enemy himself. God was clearly in charge of this thorn, it was given to Paul in the frame work of His will. Paul explains the purpose of this thorn when he said it came "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" (II Cor. 12:7). Pride in a believers life is a killer. The more we are used by the Lord the greater the temptation of believing our own stuff. When we take the glory for what the Lord is doing in and through us, we are displaying pride. God says in Proverbs He "Hates a proud look." Pride in the heart shows up as a smirk on the kisser." Ones face displays what is in ones heart. Satan fell when he became puffed up with pride. He was no longer content to be under God's authority but he wanted "to be like the most High God." Meaning he wanted to dethrone God and take His place. We are never so much like the enemy as when we are driven by pride. Sometimes God in His graciousness allows us to have a "thorn in the flesh." to keep us humble and broken before him. Remember, with the thorn comes an equal amount of grace. The Lord told Paul "My grace is sufficient for you." Ask God to let you see the purpose for your thorn, it may become one of your very best friends. Dr. Ken Copley is available for counseling, conferences, and local church meetings.

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