I remember
reviewing the letters of Paul in bible study and in doing so, I was
reminded that one cannot look at Paul without really seeing Jesus’
amazing handiwork. I think Paul is an awesome person when it comes
to the story of his life. I haven’t found a biography or
autobiography of anyone in or outside of the good book who comes
close to my admiration for Paul, Jesus notwithstanding. Because the
two are so closely associated with one another, I can’t help but
consider the impact of this tandem on human history.
“font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: Verdana;”>A very large part of the bible is devoted to Paul’s building of the early church at a time when who you worshipped was a life and death decision. Paul says in his letters to the church in Corinth, there was indeed a point to his suffering and persecution and the basis for most, if not all, of what he went through was a byproduct of his faith in Jesus Christ.
“font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: Verdana;”>“But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I (Paul) will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:8-10.
“font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: Verdana;”>This kind of thinking and belief led to the eventual proliferation of the church worldwide. It also makes the point of how the lives of so few have impacted and influenced so many in the world then, and the world as we know it today.
“font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: Verdana;”>Forgive me if I find this a rather fascinating fact. Paul is who he is because of his unique one on one encounter with Christ. That encounter changed him and ultimately the world in which we live. If that be true, then our individual encounters with Christ should also have a profound effect on us and the world.
“font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: Verdana;”>It is not unusual for new Christians to come under attack by old friends. It is also not unusual for new Christians to come under the attack of the world, since it is in the world where Satan has power. I think Paul’s good news is that there is a place of refuge when this happens. He uses himself as an example to follow.
“font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: Verdana;”>If I surrender my weaknesses to the power of Christ and subjugate my will to that of the Lord’s, then I become empowered to deal with whatever is thrown my way. Life, the Christian life, is funny that way. It places a bullseye on your back, designed to distinguish you from those non-believers around you.
“font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: Verdana;”>I guess what I’m really saying is when the going gets extremely tough, check the human being Paul. Like Christ, he’s been through and has experienced the worst that life has to offer. But because of his belief system, he’s experienced the best of God’s promises. It’s like a refresher course, and I just wanted to let you know where I go during difficult times. You too, might also find some answers there.
“font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: Verdana;”>In the eyes of God, one’s weaknesses are welcomed opportunities for God to show up and show out. Have you ever wondered why those who have been through so much are able to stand and witness so emphatically? Reexamine the reality of God’s grace and you just might get your answer.
“font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: Verdana;”>May God bless and keep you always.   Â
