Thorn in My Side

Table for One Ministries • June 13, 2013

Thorns hurt. Have you ever had a thorn in your finger? It is normally hard to get out and bleeds as well as bruises. As a single adult and as a Christian, you have a thorn in your side, all of us do. You may not know what it is yet, but there is something you wish you never had to deal with or had thoughts of. It could be a physical ailment, an addiction, sinful thoughts, still being single, being single again or anything else that makes you cry out to God to have ____ removed from your life. Paul shared this pain with you.

In 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 , Paul is talking about how he has something in his life that keeps him in some type of hardship. So much so that he cried out to God three times for it to be taken from him, and it never was. God heard Paul and simply replied “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Then it clicked for Paul, he would boast in his weakness so that the Lord may be glorified! So he makes a stand that going forward he will delight in his weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and difficulties because when he is weak then he truly strong.

If only all of us had the mindset that in our weakness we are strong, that our thorn is our strength not our excuse. People ask for more money, power, job positions all because it seems too hard to serve God where they are at. But where God has you is right where He wants you and that thorn is your strength. Do not hide to the world around you your pain and hardships. It is those situations that make you human and connect you to others in order to share the Gospel. You’re not a perfect Christian, so stop trying to be and be real about your pain, but in being real remember that your source of strength comes from the Lord. Share that along with your pain and you will Christ glorified because of your thorn.

By Table for One Ministries July 21, 2025
Discover Lifeway Research’s insights on whether your church should start a young adult service. Understand the heart behind it, what works, and why reaching young adults matters more than ever.
June 29, 2025
How should churches respond to cohabiting young adults? Explore practical, biblical guidance for navigating this sensitive ministry challenge.
By Table for One Ministries June 9, 2025
Most churches do an excellent job of ministering, supporting, engaging, and keeping kids safe. The question is: Are we reaching the family or only the kids through our efforts?
By Table for One Ministries May 22, 2025
Many churches unintentionally sideline single adults with outdated ministry models. Discover how your church can move beyond the “kids’ table” mindset and fully embrace singles as vital, disciple-making members of the church.
By Table for One Ministries May 3, 2025
Looking for the best churches for singles near you? Discover how 30-somethings can find meaningful community without being defined by their relationship status. Explore how churches can meet you where you are.
By Table for One Ministries May 1, 2025
If you're looking to name your singles ministry group, you have come to the right place. It all starts with being complete in Christ!
By Table for One Ministries April 30, 2025
Looking for Christian singles dating or Christian dating sites? Discover how to be complete in Christ before pursuing God-centered relationships. Faith-based dating starts here.
By Table for One Ministries April 22, 2025
For many college students returning home for the summer, the church didn’t move, but the seat doesn’t feel saved for them anymore.
By Table for One Ministries March 20, 2025
Single adults don’t just want a handshake; they want to be seen, acknowledged, and integrated into the fabric of the church community.
By Table for One Ministries February 28, 2025
Struggling with addiction? Discover comfort and solutions in Romans 7-8. Find hope and freedom from addiction through Christ.