Paul has a thorn in his flesh, which causes great pain. It becomes his greatest testimony. We never know the full explanation or understanding of the thorn. Because of this, we can apply Paul's teaching to our "thorns."

Paul calls upon God (prayer), but the thorn remains. Paul learned some things about himself as he dealt with the thorn.

1. When we are faced with a thorn, it Illuminates My Pride (v7) - God uses the thorn to get our attention. Paul's thorn reminds him that he must still depend on God. We are nothing without God.
2. The thorn Intensifies our Prayers (v8) - Prayer works, but we don't always like how God answers our prayers. Our prayers should seek the will of God, not just our selfish desires. Sometimes, you just have to wait on God and lean into the will of God. God will grant you strength to endure the thorn while you wait.
3. The thorn Illustrates God's Provision (v9) - "My grace is sufficient for you" was God's response to Paul's prayers. God tells Paul what he will do, even though he does not remove the thorn. We must remember that God's got it!