There are three answers God gives to our prayers: yes, no, and not yet. In Paul’s case, he asked God many times to relieve him of the thorn in his side. While we don’t know if this was a literal, physical thorn or a metaphor for a mental affliction, we see clearly that God’s response to Paul was “Not yet.”
Maybe you can relate to Paul’s frustration. You’ve asked God time and time again to take away your pain, but it seems like he’s ignoring you. Consider the fact that God’s response to Paul might be the same one he’s giving you.
When we’re going through something difficult, we all want immediate relief. No one likes to feel helpless or powerless to their situation. But sometimes, in place of instant healing, God wants to remind us that his grace is all we need. Our weakness can make us bitter and resentful of God, or it can draw our attention back to his power. When we are weak, God is strong!