What does 2 Corinthians 12:9 mean?

The situation behind it

Paul wrote 2 Corinthians to a church being swayed by impressive teachers he sarcastically calls "super apostles" (2 Corinthians 11:5). Instead of boasting about his strengths, Paul boasts about his weaknesses. He mentions a remarkable vision, then something humbling that followed it.

The thorn in the flesh

Paul describes "a thorn in my flesh" that tormented him, and says he pleaded with the Lord three times to take it away (2 Corinthians 12:7-8). Nobody knows exactly what it was. Suggestions include an illness, poor eyesight, persistent opponents, or an ongoing struggle. Not knowing may help: many people can see their own situation in it.

A no that was also a yes

God did not remove the thorn. He gave Paul something else: grace that was sufficient and power that worked through weakness. Honest prayer can receive a different answer than the one asked for, and that is not a sign God has stopped caring.

Not a call to pretend

This verse does not mean you should hide pain or refuse help. Paul was open about his struggle. It means weakness does not disqualify you. Paul goes on to say that when he is weak, then he is strong (2 Corinthians 12:10), because Christ's strength rests on him.

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 12:9