You’ll be stronger, not weaker

November 19, 2019

BIBLE MEDITATION:

Therefore, I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. 2 Corinthians 12:10

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT:

What does Paul mean in this verse when he says he “takes pleasure” in all of these difficult circumstances? He’s saying that…

• If his money were taken, he would end up with greater riches. His weakness becomes his strength.
• When Paul was isolated and placed in solitary confinement, then Jesus was near. His weakness became his strength.
• If they beat him and he hurt, then Paul had the fellowship of Christ’s suffering. His weakness became his strength.
• If his body became crippled and he was no longer able to lean upon the arm of flesh, then Paul had to lean on the Everlasting Arms.

Paul took pleasure in these things, because their result was to make him stronger in the Lord.

ACTION POINT:

God is waiting to make you strong. There is power in our suffering. Suffering is not going to hurt you; it is going to strengthen you.