Release of the SpiritSample

“Release of The Spirit” by Bryan Craig  

DAY TWO

Scripture:

“To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” 2 Corinthians 12:7-9 NIV

Thought: 

Paul, one of the greatest Christians in history, is speaking here, and he was forced to endure some sort of suffering or breaking in his flesh, his body. I’ve heard people speculate as to what his “thorn” was. I’ve heard it could have been his poor eyesight. I’ve heard it might have been a bad back. I’ve even heard someone say it could have been a lustful temptation. Whatever it was, it is clear that it was painful and unwelcome.

Yes, the Lord spoke to Paul about it, saying that this affliction was necessary to maximize His power in Paul’s life. If you follow Paul’s life, you see a man who walked in the power of the Holy Spirit. He was tuned in to hear from the Spirit. He wrote Spirit-inspired letters that form most of the New Testament. His missionary journeys were navigated by the Holy Spirit. He had supernatural healing power. Paul is an example of the breaking of the outer man leading to a release of the Spirit.

Application: 

Where are you being challenged physically? Do you feel pain in your body? We are talking about the part of you that contains your five senses: sight, smell, touch, taste, and hearing. We will contemplate the “soul” tomorrow, which is where the emotions and will are contained.

Can you draw a connection to God’s breaking of your flesh in order to bring forth power in your spirit?

If not, pray and journal about this with the Lord. Ask Him to reveal His wisdom to you.

Response:

 Take Paul’s lead in boasting about your weakness. Thank God for His grace in the midst of your suffering. Ask Christ’s power to rest on you and work through you. Write down the Spirit’s revelations as you interact with Him.