Thursday, September 10

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2020

"If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness." (2 Corinthians 11:30)


In 2 Corinthians, Paul captures his most personal sentiments in addressing the early church at Corinth. In this autobiographical section, he recounts all his accolades as an apostle: "Since many are boasting in the way the world does, I too will boast." (2 Corinthians 11:18) From his tone, we understand that this boasting does not represent his preferred stance; rather, he offers it as a means of proving the rights of his apostleship. Given his thorough commitment to Christ and His Kingdom, Paul's words carried weight, but he readily acknowledges that his only boast lay in the One Who had called him.

This sentiment reflects what we read from Jeremiah 9:23,24: "Let not the wise boast of their wisdom/ or the strong boast of their strength/ or the rich boast of their riches,/ but let the one who boasts boast about this:/ that they have the understanding to know me,/ that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness,/ justice and righteousness on earth,/ for in these I delight... " By boasting of his weakness, Paul points to God's strength.

Whenever we meet success, we may be confident that God empowered the whole process: either by giving us intellect, time, or partners or the opportunity to develop our skills. Please reflect back on a recent success. How did God bring it about? Have you praised Him for that? How can you boast more fully of God's strength (in the midst of our weakness)?


Lord God, thank You that we all may testify to Your strength and provision. Thank You for making every success possible and standing with us in every difficulty. Thank You that You empower us through Your Holy Spirit. Help us to remember our position with humility and to trust You through each challenge. In Jesus's mighty Name, amen.




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