April 12, 2019: SOAP #3417:  1Samuel 13; 1Chronicles 2-3; 2Corinthians 12

Scripture:  2Corinthians (NIV) 12:8 Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. 9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

Observation:   Surely this was not an answer that Paul was wanting.  He had a “thorn in his flesh, a messenger of Satan” that he was praying about.  He wanted deliverance.  He wanted to be free.

I hear God saying, “I will not take you out of this problem, but I will get you through it.  People will see my power being developed in you.”

God’s answer assured Paul that God had heard Paul’s prayer, that he could count on God’s presence, and that God was going to be glorified in Paul’s struggles.  Making God look good was Paul’s goal, so he was going to “gladly” boast about his weaknesses!   Paul would draw attention to his own weaknesses; God would draw attention to HIS great power!

Application:   Instead of complaining or worrying about my weaknesses, I too can “gladly boast” because they provide opportunity for God to be glorified.  When things turn out good, everyone will know that God was at work in and through me!

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, may I make you look good today.  When I do not know what to say, speak through me.  When I do not know what to do, put your thoughts in my mind.  In the little things today, flow through me. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!