Fusion: week of 6/24

FAMILY THEME: THE BELIEVER'S STRENGTH

2 Corinthians 12:1-10

Selflessness, humility, and personal weakness in a believer's

life are, ironically, potential virtues of true strength. These may

become conduits through which the power of God flows.

1.  Seek to Exalt Christ Rather Than Self

     (2 Corinthians 12:1-6)

     The mistake pride often makes is taking credit

     for what Christ or others have done. Paul found

     it difficult to boast.

 
2.  God May Use Difficulty to Keep Us Humble

     (2 Corinthians 12:7)

     Because of the inclination of fallen human 

     nature to exalt self is so powerful, especially

     when one is talented or successful, God used

     a "thorn in the flesh" to keep His servant humble.

 
3.  God's Power Shines Brightest Through Our

     Weaknesses

     (2 Corinthians 12:8-10)

     God did not always grant even the apostle

     Paul's requests. But He always had a good

     reason for not doing so. Grace and power

     were released into his life and ministry.