A THORN IN THE FLESH? “And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure.” II Corinthians‬ ‭12:7‬ ‭The word “thorn” communicates the idea of pain, suffering, trouble, humiliation or physical infirmity; but never temptation to sin. You sin when you are consumed by your own desires. Paul’s thorn was attributed to demonic activity, permitted yet limited by God to keep him from becoming proud over revelations he had received from the Lord. God kept Paul humbled so He could use him mightily.

I have heard many people in my day say, “God’s given *this* to me as a thorn, just like Paul!” Welp, until you are submitted just like Paul, it’s not a thorn. Until you have given your life to ministering for Christ just like Paul, it’s not a thorn. Until your life mirrors a life of complete surrender just like Paul, it’s not a thorn. It is your rebellious desires that you refuse to surrender to God.

You cannot overcome this so called “thorn” and cannot resist the devil because you refuse to submit. You cannot overcome because you won’t renew your mind to God’s Word. You cannot overcome because you refuse to “put no evil thing before your eyes”. You cannot overcome because you refuse to disassociate with certain friends and places. In short, you are still carnal and the enemy is running all over you. You have all the tools necessary to overcome sin and the enemy. Use them.  #runyourrace

To Learn More About Pastor Crystal please visit the Leadership Page