Similar to Job and Paul, our experiences can be filled with challenges and hardships that shape our character. How frequently do we become self-important and condescending because of our education and the emotions it evokes? And, how frequently has our sense of accomplishment been marred by a troublesome setback?
2 Corinthians 12:6-9 (MKJV), “6 For if I desire to boast, I shall not be foolish. For I will speak the truth. But I spare, lest anyone should think of me as being beyond what he sees me, or hears of me; 7 and by the surpassing revelations, lest I be made haughty, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be made haughty. 8 For this thing I besought the Lord three times, that it might depart from me. 9 And He said to me, My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore I will rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may overshadow me.”
While reading this text, keep in mind the story of Job and the challenges he faced. I strongly suggest delving into that story in the bible if you haven’t already, as it offers profound insights. According to Paul, the purpose behind his thorn is not to afflict him with a physical ailment, but to serve as a divine adversary, reminding him of his dependence on the Lord. Could it be that Paul suffered from a physical condition, like a disfigurement or a hunched back, resulting in poor balance and an inability to walk properly? Certainly is possible!
Noun: Buffeting definition has this definition: the action of striking someone or something repeatedly and violently: the roofs have survived the buffeting of worse winds than this.
Buffet definition (verb): (especially of wind or waves) strike repeatedly and violently; batter: the rough seas buffeted the coast | [no object]: the wind was buffeting at their bodies.
• knock (someone) over or off course: he was buffeted from side to side.
• (of misfortunes or difficulties) afflict or harm (someone) repeatedly or over a long period: they were buffeted by a major recession.
Buffet definition (noun): a blow, typically of the hand or fist.
• a shock or misfortune: the daily buffets of urban civilization.
Is it possible that this messenger of Satan served as an impediment rather than a concrete challenge?
No matter the specifics of Paul’s thorn, I am convinced that investing time in reading Job’s story is worthwhile. Once you’ve finished reading about Job and the Lord’s handling of His servants’ pride, take a moment to analyze your own life story for any resemblances.
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ!
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