THE SUFFICIENCY OF GRACE

At one point, Paul was ... caught up into Paradise and heard inexpressible words which man is not permitted to speak. (2 Corinthians 12:4) 

Because the apostle still had the 'old nature', he was in danger of falling into the snare of pride ... And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me. (2 Corinthians 12:7) 

Though Paul prayed for relief, God assured him that the thorn had a divine purpose ... Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:8-9)

Paul’s ability to be faithful in ministry and survive incredibly difficult times was due to ... The Sufficiency of Grace. 

He came to understand that both the 'desire' and the 'endurance' to run the race emanated from God ... Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Corinthians 12:10)

Do you see your personal thorn in the flesh as a reason to be 'bitter'? Maybe it was intended by God to make you 'better'.

Spurgeon -  Whatever would be good for you, Christ's grace is sufficient to bestow. Whatever would harm you, his grace is sufficient to avert. Whatever you desire, His grace is sufficient to give, if it be good for you. Whatever you would avoid, His grace can shield you from it if His wisdom shall dictate.

Your identity, your confidence, and your contentment are found in the sufficiency of Jesus Christ ... not the circumstances of this fleeting life.