Today's Verse: 2 Corinthians 11:30

Wednesday, November 30, 1960

If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.
— 2 Corinthians 11:30
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Thoughts on Today's Verse...

One of Paul's recurring themes throughout 2 Corinthians is that God's strength is made perfect in weakness. In 1 Corinthians, he emphasized that the strength, wisdom, and power of God are shown in what is normally a sign of weakness and humiliation - the cross (1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5). Paul wasn't a wimp - remember all that he endured and kept on serving the Lord (2 Corinthians 11:24-27). He just knew that even with all his training and talent, he wasn't skilled, smart, or strong enough to do all that needed to be done for the Kingdom of God. As folks compared him with those who were supposed to be stronger and better teachers, he didn't try to outdo them with his credentials - even though he could. Instead, Paul knew that when we recognize our insufficiency, God takes our weakness and uses it powerfully when we offer ourselves to him. Our lives must show that the "all-surpassing power" for ministry "is from God and not from us" (2 Corinthians 4:7).

My Prayer...

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for all those times you have strengthened me when I was under trial, given me wisdom in difficult situations, empowered me when I faced hardships, and used me mightily in opportunities greater than my ability to handle. I recognize that you saved and sustained me by Your grace so that I can serve in ways better beyond my natural abilities. Your glory and power enabled this to happen, so I praise and thank you in Jesus' name. Amen.

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3 Related Resources by Heartlight

Boasting in Weakness
Illustration of 2 Corinthians 11:30
Inspirational illustration of 2 Corinthians 11:30 -- If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.
Relying on God
Devo: Praying with Paul
"Dear Father, almighty God, "Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is made to fall, and I am not indignant? If I must boast, I will boast of the things...."
Credentials
Article by Phil Ware
What are the achievements that validate your credibility at doing the things you are called to do? Phil Ware looks at the way we chase and give credibility in our world and reminds how Paul showed credibility in his own: becoming a servant, in weakness, and letting God's glory and power be seen in him.

Illustration

Illustration of 2 Corinthians 11:30 — If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.

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About This Devotional

Today's Verse is a free daily devotional that includes a Bible verse, thought and prayer.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.

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