The Tide-Turning Power of HopeExemplo

We use the phrase “thorn in the flesh” to describe a persistent problem we can’t seem to solve. But the wording originates in the New Testament writings of Paul, who wrote about a thorn in his flesh and how he prayed three times for it to be removed.

Surprisingly, God didn’t remove it.

As a missionary, Paul devoted his life to serving God and experienced extreme suffering. Surely God would grant him this one small request! But God, for whatever reason, declined.

Yet Paul was able to piece it all together—his weaknesses and insults and hardships—and see them as earthly discomforts that made him look to God for strength.

We all have thorns.

They are neither comfortable nor pleasant. But they can push us toward hope. In doing so, they offer us a service. A benefit. They assist us. For in finding hope, we find one of life’s true treasure troves.