ABIDING - Day 13 (On the Thorn in the Flesh)
Scripture of the Day: 2 Corinthians 12:6-10 + 1 Corinthians 1:26-31
Series Theme: Abiding: Planted and Thriving in Busy Seasons
Do you have an unresolved issue that never seems to go away, no matter how much you pray, plan, or push through? Today we’re reflecting on Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” from 2 Corinthians, where God tells him, “My grace is sufficient for you.”
Have you ever wondered if God will ever remove your “thorn”or why He hasn’t yet? If so, you’re not alone. Many of us carry a persistent ache, a chronic struggle, or an old wound that quietly colors our days. It can feel humbling, scary, and deeply personal to name it out loud.
If you’ve wrestled with ongoing sadness, chronic conditions, or the kind of mental and emotional weight that feels ever-present, and you long to experience God’s nearness in it, this episode is for you.
This isn’t about gritting your teeth through pain. It’s about learning holy dependence that softens our hearts, guides our choices, and shapes us into Christ’s likeness right where we feel weakest. When God’s resurrection life meets your weakness, God’s power shines through, so you can be the friend, neighbor, colleague, parent or person you’re meant to be.
TIMESTAMPS
- 0:00 — Opening + Grounding
- 1:23 — Morning Prayer
- 2:13 — Today’s Bible Reading (2 Corinthians 12: 6-10 & 1 Corinthians 1:26-31)
- 5:09 — Why it’s hard to open up about our struggles - and what makes it feel safer.
- 7:30 — How past traumas can shape sensitivity, mercy, and personal ministry
- 9:01 — The unexpected strength of humility and holy dependence
- 11:04 — How to notice God’s goodness in the unlikeliest moments
- 12:44 — What you can do right now to redirect your mind with Philippians 4:8
- 14:27 — How God can reawaken what feels dormant in you
- 15:52 — Today’s Journaling: Inviting God into our weakness + today’s top tasks
- 19:59 — Closing Prayer: Reawakened by God, and ready for the day.
RESOURCES + LINKS
If this episode spoke to you, subscribe and share it with a friend who needs encouragement today. Download the Free 365-Day Bible Reading Plan at https://www.homeceoacademy.com/biblestudy.
DEPRESSION RESOURCES
If you’re struggling with depression, persistent sadness, or thoughts of self-harm, please seek support right away. This podcast is for spiritual encouragement and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or crisis care.
If you’re in immediate danger, call 911 (or your local emergency number).
Free and confidential support in the U.S.:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org (24/7)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor (24/7)
- SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for mental health and substance use treatment referrals (24/7)
If you’re outside the U.S., please contact your local emergency number or visit findahelpline.com to locate free, confidential support in your country. You are not alone, and help is available.
