What's the thorn that's bothering you?

 

Each of us have a thorn in our life we tolerate. We wish to have absolute control over all situations we encounter in life. A great dream but a distant one. None of us live a perfect scenario of a hurt-free life. Thorns are a gift which remind us of our finitude and that we are mere breath. There are some who hold power and money and assume they are free to abuse and hurt many along the way. Each of us have different thorns that hurt us. I am not sure what pain you are living with or what is that one thing that you are not able to get rid of despite all the good things you have. I am referring to that one thing that drains your energy and makes you question your very existence.

The thorn can be sickness, constant financial crunches, loan, spouse, colleague, current job, boss etc.,. As ridiculous as it may sound, some of these thorns can actually shape us to be a better person and help us to be more reliant on God. Those who inspire others through their talks on meaning and purpose in life, usually have a life transforming story to share filled with thorns.

The Bible talks of a person called Paul, who once persecuted and executed the followers of Jesus. One day, he encounters Jesus in a vision. His life is totally transformed, and he ended up becoming a witness for Jesus. He was a real person who makes this statement, "even though I have received such wonderful revelations from God. So keep me from becoming proud, I was given a thorn in my flesh... to torment me and keep me from becoming proud." And he says this, "three different times I begged the Lord to take it away. Each time he said, "My Grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness."

I like this powerful statement made by J J Vasquez, "If you can’t find peace and purpose in anonymity and poverty, don’t look for it in fame and fortune.". We always misinterpret success, fame, and fortune as game changers for a transformed life, leading to lasting success. Those who used these to move up the ladder in their life were destroyed and brought down by the very same. Jesus Christ, who is an all-powerful God, became powerless before His enemies to fulfil the greater purpose of offering forgiveness and salvation to mankind and rescue us from our wretchedness by being crucified and resurrected. Your thorn is not to destroy you but for you to thrive in the purpose for which you were created. Talk to the God who fulfils your purpose through you pain and struggle. Jesus lives in us. Invite Him into your heart. He is waiting to strengthen you and be with you in your journey in this earth.

 

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