God encouraged the despondent apostle Paul with the thought, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness” (v. 9). We do not know what this thorn in the flesh might have been. It is purposely left indeterminate so that each may make an application to his own case and circumstances.

Who cannot tell of some distressing trial or sorrow? It might entail poor health, loss, or bereavement, the treachery of some trusted friend, or the sting of disappointed ambition—all, while no one else knows about it. Just as the apostle besought the Lord that the thorn might be taken away, so you also may have prayed fervently that your trial might be averted and your sorrow removed. You doubtless imagine that it would be far better if it were gone. But note that what the Lord gives is far better than the removal of the trial. He gives the promise of the grace to bear it. This result may be unlike what we expect, indeed what we wish for, but before long we will heartily recognize God’s divine wisdom in it (vv. 9–10).

This will be true for you too! Remember, your prayer has not remained unanswered, but it has been answered, not according to your thoughts or desires, but according to those of your heavenly Father. You are being taught to know your own weakness and to depend on His strength instead!

He would have you learn that He will not allow a trial to go beyond what we are able to endure (1 Cor. 10:13) and that “the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations” (2 Pet. 2:9).