The Thorn in the Flesh: Hope for All Who Struggle with Impossible Conditions

by R.T. Kendall

Considering all the acute and painful situations in which anyone can find themselves, R.T. Kendall explains, from a Pauline point of view, what a thorn in the flesh is and how God's grace can help an individual through the pain towards intimacy with Jesus.

Genres: Christian, Christian Living

228 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1999

Reviews

[N.]

Well, it changed how I view my thorns in the flesh. Perspective makes all the difference. Thankful.

[Shane Ryan Bailey]

A brilliant little book. I had felt led by the Spirit to read it and now I see why. After reading this book, I now see that certain painful, perplexing situations in my life are most likely thorns in the flesh ordained by God. R.T. Kendall covers the most common thorn (illness) but also proposes a number of others not commonly considered: being stuck in an unwanted career or ministry, an unhappy marriage, insecurities about one's own sexuality, financial struggles, difficult living situations. The chapter on unhappy marriages contains the best Christian writing on marriage I've ever read. There is very wise Biblical guidance here and throughout the book. Worth reading!

[Ray Hansel]

We have this called a "thorn in the flesh" in order for us to humble ourselves before God. For us to be reminded that He is sovereign and knows what is the best for us since He's the creator of the universe.

[Caroline]

A relatable explanation.

A deep expansion of the thorn in the flesh puzzle with relatable examples. Thanks for a bible based well flowing book.

[Thomas Lovejoy]

I loved it as it was so encouraging around this topic and helps us to see that our pain is momentary compared to our glory with Christ.

[Diane]

We all have heartaches and trials in life - they make us fold over and hide or make us stronger. If you have any challenges in life - read, study this book. God has a way of working in us, that gives us strength no matter the challenge. It can be so small you don't even really recognize it - but it can be something just "annoying" an itch or a "bug bite" - but not taking care of it early it can fester. Even if you read just one chapter ...or maybe two (Chapter 1 and the "problem or "your thorn" chapter) I think you will begin to see the bigger picture of God and His Works.

[Richard]

It is an eye opener, a heart mover, and well it certainly has my attention.

[Tim Tuttle]

'... to keep me from being conceited..." 2 Corinthians 12:7