There are many interpretations of Paul’s thorn in the flesh. Usually, people are more concerned in knowing what the thorn was rather than its purpose.

Three things draw our attention: the thorn, its origin and its reason.

– The thorn was a personal problem;

– The origin of that problem was the devil;

– The reason for that problem was so that Paul would not become proud because of the revelations he received.

What could he possibly benefit from that awful experience?

I believe that not only the revelations but also the blessings achieved happened for a more special reason: to glorify the Lord of Glory.

Paul ascended to the third heaven. He was caught up into paradise and heard things so astounding that he could not repeat.

This would obviously make Paul more prominent than the other apostles and more considered among the Christian people.

God knows that, no matter how much of a saint a man may be, he’s still human – therefore, subject to error and failure. The reason why God allows people such as Paul to be buffeted by personal problems is to avoid spiritual pride.

We cannot forget that Satan was an archangel, a leader among the angels in heaven. He fell because of pride…

If Paul lived in the present day, he would certainly have serious problems, for there are many pastors who prefer preaching more about him than about the Lord Jesus.

The Bible teaches us that, “A man who flatters (praises) his neighbor spreads a net for his feet” (Proverbs 29.5).

No matter how big the miracle you achieve or the amount of faith you possess, remember never to boast!

Instead, give all of the praise to the Lord of Glory!