Tag: weakness

2 Corinthians 12:1-10 – Grace

Read 2 Corinthians 12:1-10

One of my favorite verses comes up in today’s reading. In recent days we’ve talked about boasting and struggles. While most of us don’t want to boast about the things that have caused us harm, sadness, misfortune, or weakness, Paul is giving us the nod to go ahead. It is especially powerful when we can see God working amidst our pain.

Have you ever cried out to God to take away a limitation, a struggle, a sickness, or some other challenge? Paul did, too. And here’s the promise from verse 9, “Each time he [God] said, ‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.’ So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.” God is speaking that into our hearts today as well.

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2 Corinthians 4:7-12 – Jars of Clay

Read 2 Corinthians 4:7-12

When I read this text, two things stand out to me. I think of a Christian band called Jars of Clay, and I recognize the lyrics of song “Trading My Sorrows” by Darrell Evans are taken from this text. I love when I find lyrics in Scripture. But what I want to focus on today is how fragile we all are, even if we don’t realize it.

Have you ever dropped a clay pot? What happens? It shatters and dirt goes everywhere, not to mention the plant you are trying to grow. At least the clay pots I’ve encountered are fragile–just like we are. In this passage, Paul is being real with his friends in Corinth. Paul hasn’t had an easy go of it. He has endured exactly what he describes. Paul has seen it all, being pressed, perplexed, hunted down, and knocked down. Just like us.

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2 Peter 1:5-11 – Remember the Promises

Read 2 Peter 1:5-11

Today’s reading is a little more “duty” focused than usual. When we remember what God has done for us, and the promises he has made, we can’t help but want to please him. Right? Most of us, anyway, most of the time, at least.

If we are brutally honest with ourselves, as we should be, we need to realize that we aren’t perfect. Sometimes we forget we are sinful beings. Sometimes we forget how much we need a Savior. Sometimes it takes passages like this to remind us how we should be living our lives in response to God’s promises and provisions. Continue reading “2 Peter 1:5-11 – Remember the Promises”

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