Glory in Weakness
2 Corinthians 4:16-18
16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.
2 Corinthians 12:7-10
7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. 8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. 9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 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.
Thoughts:
Paul gloried in his infirmities because they revealed God's strength. Your struggles, failures, and weaknesses aren't disqualifications; they’re opportunities for God's power to be displayed. Though your outward body is perishing, your inner person is being renewed daily. Every affliction you face is light compared to the eternal weight of glory awaiting you. The key is perspective: look not at what is seen but at what is unseen. The temporary trials of this life are producing something eternal. You're still accepted in the Beloved despite your mess-ups. You still have access to the Father. You're still part of the inheritance. This is the church's message: imperfect people made perfect in Christ, constantly renewed by His grace.
Prayer:
What "light affliction" can you think of that has happened, or is happening in your life, as an opportunity for God's glory to shine through your weakness? Pray and ask Him for the strength to endure it and for Him to receive all glory and praise.
16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.
2 Corinthians 12:7-10
7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. 8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. 9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 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.
Thoughts:
Paul gloried in his infirmities because they revealed God's strength. Your struggles, failures, and weaknesses aren't disqualifications; they’re opportunities for God's power to be displayed. Though your outward body is perishing, your inner person is being renewed daily. Every affliction you face is light compared to the eternal weight of glory awaiting you. The key is perspective: look not at what is seen but at what is unseen. The temporary trials of this life are producing something eternal. You're still accepted in the Beloved despite your mess-ups. You still have access to the Father. You're still part of the inheritance. This is the church's message: imperfect people made perfect in Christ, constantly renewed by His grace.
Prayer:
What "light affliction" can you think of that has happened, or is happening in your life, as an opportunity for God's glory to shine through your weakness? Pray and ask Him for the strength to endure it and for Him to receive all glory and praise.
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