PAUL AND THE THORN

Part Four, Miscellany


This could be titled: St. Paul's Thorny Problem or The Problem and Pain of unanswered Prayer.


It could be outlined: The Misery of the Thorn, The Mystery of the Thorn and The Ministry of the Thorn.


Lessons and Observations


· There are ups and down in the Christian life. ("Canaan is a land of hills and valleys.")


· The "Caught up to heaven" is not an experience to be sought after - until the rapture.


· Often great trial follows great triumphs.


· We don't quit praying when we don't get the answer we expect.


· God's refusal is no sign of His displeasure.


· If God revises or refuses a petition it is no sign he refuses the person!


· We are not to give up when we face things we do not understand.


· There is purpose in the things God permits.


· The very best Christians may be subject to severe and mysterious trials. Think of Job.


· We must not expect to duplicate someone else's experience.


Suggested Study: Paul's Pleasure, Paul's Pain, Paul's Prayer, Paul's Profit


It was: Personal, Painful, Perplexing, Prolonged, Purposeful, and Profitable