When we read this verse in context we find that God allowed Satan to afflict Paul to keep him humble. We never learn what the affliction (thorn) was, but we know Paul prayed three times for God to remove it. Instead, the Lord told him … “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”  

Once Paul understood why God allowed the thorn he accepted it and actually embraced it because he knew his weakness would be cause for the strength of Christ to be revealed.

Jesus told His disciples they would do even greater works than He did. (John 14:12) I believe in miracles! I believe God still moves mountains! I am perplexed by the fact that I have never seen these “greater works”, much less done them myself. I know one thing for certain; God is faithful. He is not the problem. He is always the solution. 

That being said, if you have some thorns in your life that just won’t go away, KNOW that God’s grace is sufficient for you. He will carry you in your time of weakness. Continue to pray for healing and deliverance, but also seek to understand why God has allowed the affliction to remain. Remember, He loves you deeply and He will never leave you or forsake you. Rest in the assurance that Father knows best and when we are weak, He is strong.