The Need for a Thorn or Christian Associations

O Lord, I have realized that I need structure around me to keep me going in the direction of Your Way.  I have realized that if I don’t have the right structure, I will go astray.  As I understand it now, the structure must be either a “thorn in the side” or, and environment where I can constantly be in association with other Christians.  

The “thorn in the side” serves to keep me in check.  Although my natural man is always grievous to the “thorn,” my spirit rejoices because of it.  If my natural man had his way, the thorn would be removed immediately.  The natural man rationalizes, thinking that I can be spiritual without the thorn.  I now know better.  This is pure deception.  I know that if the thorn would be removed, I would succumb to the pressures of the world and the flesh.  They try to keep me away from God.  

I also realize that if I am not in an environment where I am constantly associating with Christians, I will fall into the trap of being contaminated with worldly and fleshly behaviors.  

Because I realize this situation now, I need You, Lord, to keep me strong in handling the “thorn in the side” and to keep me in an environment with Christians.  Thank You.  Have mercy on me.