thorns.

The sermon titled "Thorns" by Pastor Thomas-Steele was centered on understanding and dealing with suffering through a spiritual perspective. He reminded the congregation of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, underlining that even though people endure pain and hardship, they do so with a purpose. He emphasized the notion of Jesus transforming wounds into worship, thus giving our suffering meaning and direction.The sermon unveiled the significance of prayer in our suffering, arguing that it should not be a last resort but our first response to suffering. Furthermore, it addressed the concept of God's silence amidst our suffering, suggesting that His silence is not a mark of indifference, but rather an indication that He has already communicated with us through the Bible. Hence, believers are encouraged to engage more with God's word.Pastor Thomas-Steele's sermon made it clear that while God does not promise to take away our suffering, He undoubtedly guides us through it, similar to how Jesus and Paul overcame their trials. Suffering, thus, creates endurance, character, and hope. The sermon concluded with a calling to those yet to embrace Jesus as their savior, emphasizing the assurance of salvation found in faith and trust in Him. It was an encouragement to surrender through prayer and rejoice in the renewed life offered by Christ.