Have you ever felt beaten up by what's going on in your life? I have. It's a most miserable place. The very things I try to avoid somehow happen and there I stand--bruised, shaken up and hurting. Despite all good efforts, it gets more intense. By faith, I know the Lord hears my prayers and yet the battle rages. Then, just when I think the situation will calm down, out of nowhere, another one appears. It's absolutely amazing--mind boggling--and if I let myself dwell on these circumstances, then sadness, sorrow and tears become my constant companions. Issues pound in my brain until I can think of little else...UNTIL...specific scripture comes to mind and the realization of what Paul went through hits home for me and I notice the differences.
2 Corinthians 11:23-31 "I have been in prison more often. I have been hurt more in beatings. I have been near death many times.24 Five times the Jews have given me their punishment of thirty-nine lashes with a whip.25 Three different times I was beaten with rods. One time I was almost stoned to death. Three times I was in ships that wrecked, and one of those times I spent a night and a day in the sea.26 I have gone on many travels and have been in danger from rivers, thieves, my own people, the Jews, and those who are not Jews. I have been in danger in cities, in places where no one lives, and on the sea. And I have been in danger with false Christians.27 I have done hard and tiring work, and many times I did not sleep. I have been hungry and thirsty, and many times I have been without food. I have been cold and without clothes.28 Besides all this, there is on me every day the load of my concern for all the churches.29 I feel weak every time someone is weak, and I feel upset every time someone is led into sin."
No matter how miserable or sad I have been, I have to be truthful and say that in comparison to our brother Paul, I have been through NOTHING significant! Never once have I been in prison, beaten with rods for my faith, or almost stoned to death. I've never been whipped or shipwrecked, in danger from thieves, or even gone hungry or naked.
30 If I must brag, I will brag about the things that show I am weak.31 God knows I am not lying. He is the God and Father of the Lord Jesus Christ, and he is to be praised forever."
It is then I realize that in my greatest time of personal weakness that I am strongest in Jesus. My own strength may be completely depleted. I may not know what to do or how to do it but through Christ, I am a victor! It is only in my utter lack of resources and strength that I depend upon His power, His wisdom, and His limitless help. In my own power, I have nothing with which to battle. If anything at all goes well, if I receive any relief, if any battle is won, I will brag on what Jesus has done. He is my rescuer!
Lord, your word encourages me on my lowest days! Thank you for recording Paul's life and hardships and his praise for you! I love you!
Suz
No comments:
Post a Comment