ISB ~ 2 Corinthians 12 v7

a thorn:Sometimes interpreted as a sickness or physical disability, such as failing eyesight (Gal 4:13-15; 6:11). Others connect it with the Hebrew idiom used in Num 33:55, where it denotes personal opposition or harassment. Either way, God allowed Paul to suffer so that he would maintain perspective and not take pride in his heavenly experiences. Even the heights of Paul’s mystical life were tempered with suffering and weakness.

messenger of Satan:Like righteous Job, Paul endured afflictions that were permitted by God and administered by the devil (Job 1-2).

• Some ask if the devil is good because he is useful. We respond that he is only evil, but God who is good and almighty draws from the devil’s malice many just and good things. The devil possesses a will that is bent on evil, not the Providence of God that brings good from him (St. Augustine, Against the Manichaeans 2, 28, 42).