Receiving a thorn in the flesh in order to break down spiritual strongholds.
1. Paul’s “Thorn in the Flesh” (2 Corinthians 12:7)

1.1. Possible nature of the thorn:
Many speculate about a physical condition, such as eye problems (referred to in Galatians 4:15, partly by the physician Luke described Acts 14:19, possibly after stoning), malaria, migraines, epilepsy, or a speech problem.

1.2. Other suggestions. They include “recurrent temptation” or “persistent enemies.”
The website gotquestions.org/dutch/thorn-in-the-flesh.html (quoted in the source) summarizes, “A myriad of explanations have been proposed for the meaning and nature of Paul’s thorn in the flesh…. No one can say for certain what Paul’s thorn in the flesh was, but it was probably a physical affliction.”

1.3. The Purpose of the Thorn (according to Paul himself):
Its primary purpose was to keep Paul humble. The source emphasizes that someone who had received such unique revelations from Christ (Acts 9:2-8), and wrote much of the New Testament, could easily become proud. Paul clearly states, “To prevent me from exalting myself, a thorn was thrust into my flesh: I am tormented by an angel of Satan” (2 Corinthians 12:7).

1.4. Where the thorn came from: The thorn came from “a messenger of Satan,” but God allowed it “for God’s own (good) purposes and always within the limits of God’s perfect will,” similar to Job’s trials (Job 1:1-12).

1.5. A hindrance? Not if we consider God’s purpose!
Paul experienced it as a hindrance to his ministry (Galatians 5:14-16) and pleaded with the Lord God three times for salvation (2 Corinthians 12:8).

1.6. The ultimate lesson. For Paul, it was that “Divine power comes out best when seen against the backdrop of human weakness (2 Corinthians 4:7), so that only God gets the glory (2 Corinthians 10:17).” God’s grace was “enough” (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Conclusion.

The “thorn in the flesh,” both in Paul’s context and in a broader Biblical sense, symbolizes the difficulties, temptations, and opposition believers may experience in their lives. These “thorns” are often a result of sin, or a means God uses to promote humility, encourage dependence on Him, and reveal His strength in human weakness.

The constant call is to actively tear down these “strongholds,” punish disobedience, and remain faithful to God’s Word, knowing that His grace is sufficient and He deserves the glory. Doing these things leads to blessing: “If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them” (John 13:17).

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