2 Corinthians 12:7-10

We seldom actually realize what a blessing is -> trust God

God-Given Thorn (vv. 7-8)

Where did this thorn come from? -> messenger of Satan under the authority of God (Job 1:6-12, 2:1-8)

Satan isn’t sneaking one past God, nor is God just unable to spare you. You aren’t a pawn -> there is comfort in this (Job 1:20-22)

God is a sovereign God -> do not fail to recognize this -> don’t view God like a horse in a race, but rather like a sovereign, wise king

Understanding this doesn’t make the thorn any less painful (Job 3:1-7, 11-12)

The Answer (vv. 9-10)

Grace is sufficient -> what is grace?

God’s unmerited favor to man (but what form does it take?)

Whatever is necessary to glorify God and His church (including thorns) -> what could be more gracious? (1 Cor. 3:10-20)

Consider the benefit of Paul’s thorn (God’s power perfected + 2 Cor. 13:4)

approx. 8 books of the bible (including Romans and prison epistles) + countless souls saved and saints edified

Look at all the glory God has recieved through Paul because of this thorn

Often our prayers conflict each other (i.e. “Lord use me/save them/help them (or me) grow and remove this thorn!”)

We have no clue what a blessing is, but our Sovereign Lord does, and He can be trusted! (Job 13:13-15, 42:1-6)

Take the advice of Proverbs 3:5-8)