Strength in Weakness
Strength in Weakness23
Our Daily Homily - 2 Corinthians
By F.B. Meyer02CO 1:42CO 2:152CO 3:182CO 4:182CO 5:182CO 6:82CO 7:12CO 8:72CO 9:102CO 12:10F.B. Meyer emphasizes the theme of comfort in affliction as he reflects on 2 Corinthians, highlighting how God comforts us in our tribulations so that we can extend that comfort to others. He encourages believers to view their trials as opportunities for growth and to keep a record of God's mercies during difficult times. Meyer illustrates the transformative power of suffering, suggesting that through our weaknesses, God's strength is made perfect. He also discusses the importance of living a life that reflects Christ, becoming a sweet aroma to God and others. Ultimately, he calls for a deep communion with the Holy Spirit, which enables believers to navigate life's challenges with grace and purpose.
I Know I'll Be in Trouble
By A.W. Tozer0PSA 46:1ISA 41:10ROM 8:312CO 12:9EPH 6:10PHP 4:131TH 2:22TI 1:7JAS 1:21PE 5:8A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of boldness in faith despite the inevitable troubles that may arise from standing for truth. He reflects on his deep conversations with God, acknowledging his own weakness and the strength found in God. Tozer encourages believers to accept the challenges that come with faith, asserting that true strength is found in vulnerability and reliance on God. He challenges listeners to commit to doing what is right, even when faced with opposition and temptation. Ultimately, Tozer inspires a courageous faith that stands firm in the face of adversity.
Rev. 3:8. the Church's Little Strength, and the Lord's Great Love
By Horatius Bonar0ISA 32:2ISA 40:11ISA 42:7ISA 43:3ISA 46:1ISA 63:9ISA 66:132CO 2:12COL 4:3REV 3:8Horatius Bonar emphasizes the tender love and gracious character of Christ as depicted in Revelation 3:8, where He acknowledges the Church's little strength while offering an open door of opportunity and service. Bonar highlights Christ's patience and gentleness, encouraging believers to rely on His compassion during their struggles and weaknesses. He reassures that even in their feebleness, their faithfulness in keeping His word and not denying His name is honored by God. The sermon illustrates how Christ's love is a source of comfort and strength for those who feel overwhelmed and in need of support. Bonar's message is a reminder of the open door to salvation and service that Christ provides, regardless of our limitations.
Zechariah 10:7
By Chuck Smith0NEH 8:10PSA 28:7PSA 37:4ISA 41:10ZEC 10:7JHN 16:33ROM 15:132CO 12:9PHP 4:41PE 5:7Chuck Smith emphasizes the joy that comes from a deep relationship with God, highlighting that true rejoicing stems from the heart rather than the mind. He explains that while circumstances may not always be favorable, believers can find constant joy in the Lord's love, redemption, and guidance. Smith also discusses God's promise to strengthen those who seek Him, noting that as believers rejoice in the Lord, they find the strength to overcome life's burdens. The sermon encourages a heart transformation that leads to a consistent attitude of joy, regardless of external situations.
2 Corinthians Chapter 5 Paul's Testimony Concerning Supernatural Life for the Body
By A.B. Simpson0ISA 40:31JHN 14:19ROM 8:112CO 4:112CO 5:12CO 12:9EPH 3:16PHP 4:132TI 4:71PE 5:10A.B. Simpson emphasizes Paul's testimony in 2 Corinthians 5, illustrating the significance of the supernatural life that Christ imparts to our mortal bodies. He explains that while our physical existence is frail, it is through the life of Jesus that we find strength and endurance amidst trials and suffering. Simpson highlights that this divine power is not merely a concept but a reality that believers can experience daily through faith and dependence on Christ. He reassures that the struggles we face are part of the process of receiving this supernatural life, which ultimately leads to the promise of eternal glory. The message culminates in the hope of resurrection and the eternal life that awaits believers.
Gideon; or the Strength of Weakness
By A.B. Simpson01CO 1:27A.B. Simpson emphasizes the paradox of strength in weakness through the story of Gideon, who, despite his initial fear and timidity, is called by God to lead Israel against the Midianites. The sermon illustrates how God chooses the weak to confound the mighty, demonstrating that true strength comes from reliance on God rather than human ability. Gideon's journey from doubt to faith is marked by signs from God, revealing the importance of obedience and trust in divine guidance. Ultimately, God reduces Gideon's army to just 300 men to showcase His power, teaching that faithfulness and vigilance are essential for God's chosen servants. Simpson concludes that God desires a people who are fully committed and prepared for His work, transforming the weak into mighty victors.
Hungry for God
By Zac Poonen0GEN 32:262KI 2:9HOS 12:4LUK 24:152CO 12:9Zac Poonen emphasizes the transformative power of being hungry for God, as exemplified by Jacob's earnest plea for blessing at Peniel. After years of pursuing worldly gains, Jacob finally let go of his earthly desires and sought God with all his heart, demonstrating true earnestness. God tested Jacob's resolve, revealing that true blessing comes when one is desperate for God's presence and power, especially in moments of weakness. Poonen highlights that it is in our brokenness that we find strength in God, echoing the Apostle Paul's teaching that weakness can lead to divine power. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to thirst for a deeper relationship with God, recognizing that true fulfillment lies in His blessings.
God Gives Power to the Weak
By David Wilkerson0ACT 2:25ROM 12:3David Wilkerson emphasizes that God grants each believer a measure of faith that must be nurtured into a strong, unwavering trust in Him. He encourages believers to confront their fears and uncertainties by fully committing their lives to God, recognizing His faithfulness despite personal failures. By embracing God's Word, believers can find strength and reassurance, especially in turbulent times, as they are reminded of their identity as God's children. Wilkerson highlights the promise from Isaiah that God empowers the weak and renews their strength, enabling them to rise above challenges. Ultimately, he reassures that God is always present and ready to support His beloved children.
Strength for a New Year
By J.R. Miller0ISA 40:31MAT 11:28PHP 4:13JAS 1:17J.R. Miller emphasizes the importance of making each year count by striving for growth and not settling for complacency. He acknowledges the weariness and discouragement that often accompany Christian service, but reassures that God's strength is available to those who seek it. Miller explains that this strength comes through various means, including Scripture, human love, and direct divine intervention. He encourages believers to wait upon the Lord, trusting in His love and guidance, to renew their strength continually. Ultimately, he reminds us that God equips us for every challenge we face, ensuring we are never alone in our struggles.
The Duty of Being Always Strong
By J.R. Miller02CO 12:9J.R. Miller emphasizes the duty of being strong, asserting that while weakness is not a virtue, it draws God's special sympathy and help. He illustrates that divine strength is available to those who recognize their own weakness and turn to God for support, as exemplified by the Apostle Paul. Miller encourages individuals to awaken their inner potential and strive for strength, likening it to an eagle realizing its ability to soar rather than remaining grounded like a chicken. He warns against complacency and urges believers to actively seek strength to fulfill their God-given purpose. Ultimately, he calls for a proactive approach to life, encouraging believers to face struggles with courage and determination.
A "Man in Christ" and the Flesh. 2 Corinthians 12
By John Nelson Darby02CO 12:2John Nelson Darby emphasizes the contrast between the spiritual elevation of Paul, who was caught up to the third heavens, and the struggles of the Corinthian Christians. He explains that being 'in Christ' is a shared privilege among all believers, allowing them to experience communion with God and strength in their weaknesses. Paul’s glory lies not in his accomplishments but in his infirmities, which serve to highlight God's power. Darby also discusses the role of the flesh and how it can lead believers away from God, illustrating that trials and thorns in the flesh are often used by God to prevent pride and draw us closer to Him. Ultimately, God's grace is sufficient for our weaknesses, and through our struggles, we can find true strength in Him.
As Your Strength
By Andrew Murray0MAT 28:18LUK 24:49ACT 1:8ACT 2:43ACT 4:13ACT 5:132CO 12:9EPH 1:19EPH 6:10PHP 4:13Andrew Murray emphasizes the paradox of strength in weakness, teaching that true power comes from recognizing our own limitations and relying on Christ's omnipotence. He explains that while Christians often seek to overcome their weaknesses, God desires us to embrace them, as it is through our weaknesses that His strength is made perfect. Murray illustrates that all power has been given to Christ, and through Him, believers receive the strength needed for life and service. He encourages Christians to abide in Christ, as this union is essential for accessing divine power. Ultimately, the message is that our feebleness is not a hindrance but a channel for Christ's strength to flow through us.
Don't Be Blind to the Blessing
By David Wilkerson0PSA 34:18ISA 41:10MAT 5:3MAT 7:11LUK 6:20ROM 8:282CO 12:9PHP 4:19JAS 1:51PE 5:7David Wilkerson emphasizes that just as a father delights in helping his children during difficult times, our Lord Jesus takes even greater joy in blessing His children when they call upon Him. He reassures those who feel inadequate or less talented that they are indeed blessed, as their weaknesses allow God's strength to shine through them. Wilkerson reminds us that Jesus values the humble and the needy, stating that true blessing comes from recognizing our dependence on Him. The message encourages believers to see their struggles as opportunities for divine grace and support.
Letter: Craignure, Isle of Mull, 18th August 1882.
By Andrew Bonar0JOB 23:10PSA 22:14PSA 22:19REV 2:2REV 3:1Andrew Bonar emphasizes the profound weakness of Christ on the Cross, as expressed in Psalm 22, and encourages believers to find strength in Jehovah during their own moments of weakness. He reminds the congregation of Christ's ability to sympathize with their struggles and urges them to claim God's strength in their times of need. Bonar also reassures that God knows the paths we take and that His loving-kindness never fails, promising that trials will lead to spiritual refinement.
He Set Up the Pillars Before the Temple, . . .
By F.B. Meyer02CH 3:17PSA 18:2ISA 41:10MAT 16:18ROM 1:11EPH 3:17PHP 4:13COL 2:7HEB 13:91PE 5:10F.B. Meyer emphasizes the significance of the pillars Jachin and Boaz, which symbolize God's establishment and strength in our lives. He explains that Jesus has established redemption, the Church, and our standing before God, ensuring that we are rooted in faith and love. Meyer encourages believers to seek Jesus for strength and stability, highlighting the importance of abiding in Him to remain steadfast. He reminds us that our strength comes from Christ, who empowers us to face life's challenges. Ultimately, the sermon calls for reliance on Jesus as our source of strength and support.
Instruments of Service
By A.B. Simpson01CO 1:27A.B. Simpson emphasizes that God chooses the foolish, weak, base, despised, and things that are not to accomplish His purposes, challenging the notion that human wisdom and strength are necessary for service. He illustrates how God has historically used humble instruments, like Moses' rod and Gideon's small army, to confound the mighty, and how the simplicity of faith can lead to profound results. Simpson encourages believers to embrace their weaknesses and lowly status, as these are often the very qualities that God uses to demonstrate His power and grace. He concludes by affirming that true strength comes from being nothing in ourselves and allowing Christ to live through us.
"Let the Weak Say "˜I Am Strong'"
By David Wilkerson0PSA 34:18ISA 40:29JOL 3:10ROM 8:372CO 12:9EPH 6:10PHP 4:132TI 1:7HEB 13:51PE 5:7David Wilkerson emphasizes that feelings of inadequacy and discouragement are common, but they should not lead us to doubt God's love and support. He challenges the notion that self-deprecation is humility, asserting that it actually insults God's work in us. Instead, we are called to rise above self-pity and recognize our identity as loved and chosen by God. Wilkerson encourages believers to recall God's past faithfulness and to declare strength in the face of weakness, as God empowers us to overcome our struggles. Ultimately, he reminds us that true faith endures and is bolstered by God's promises.
God's Best
By A.B. Simpson0ISA 43:7ROM 8:291CO 9:24GAL 2:20PHP 3:13PHP 4:132TH 1:112TI 2:212TI 4:71JN 3:2A.B. Simpson emphasizes the pursuit of God's best in the Christian life, distinguishing between being saved, sanctified, and achieving the highest calling of faith and love. He draws parallels between spiritual growth and academic achievement, urging believers to strive for excellence in their faith journey, much like Paul did in his ministry. Simpson warns against complacency in the church, highlighting that God seeks individuals who embody His divine nature and reflect His glory. He encourages believers to embrace their weaknesses, as God's strength is made perfect in them, and to live lives that glorify Him through their actions and faith. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to God's highest purpose, urging Christians to seek His best and avoid the disappointments of unfulfilled potential.
The Duty of Being Strong
By J.R. Miller0PSA 73:26ISA 40:31MAT 11:28JHN 15:5ROM 8:372CO 12:9EPH 6:10PHP 4:132TI 2:11PE 5:10J.R. Miller emphasizes the duty of being strong, asserting that strength is a moral obligation rather than a mere gift. He acknowledges human weakness but insists that God empowers us to overcome our struggles, urging believers to seek strength through faith and divine connection. Miller illustrates that strength can be found in scripture, through the support of friends, and ultimately through a personal relationship with Christ, who imparts His strength to us. He encourages a mindset that views obstacles as opportunities for growth, reinforcing that true strength comes from trusting in God and living in fellowship with Him. The sermon concludes with the powerful reminder that in our weakness, we can find strength through God's grace.
Paul's Own Story of His Life 2 Corinthians 11:22-12:10
By J.R. Miller02CO 11:22J.R. Miller explores Paul's defense of his ministry in 2 Corinthians, emphasizing that despite accusations of weakness, Paul recounts his sufferings not to boast, but to highlight his devotion to Christ. He shares his trials, including beatings and shipwrecks, as marks of honor for his service, demonstrating that true strength is found in weakness and reliance on God's grace. Paul’s experiences serve as a testament to the cost of discipleship and the glory of suffering for Christ's sake, ultimately revealing that his weaknesses allowed Christ's strength to shine through.
Gideon
By Phil Beach Jr.3352:45Phil Beach Jr. explores the life of Gideon, emphasizing the importance of recognizing our weaknesses and relying on God's strength. He highlights how Gideon, initially seen as a fearful man, was transformed into a mighty warrior through God's calling and empowerment. The sermon encourages believers to embrace their brokenness and allow God to work through them, using the story of Gideon's victory over the Midianites as a metaphor for spiritual battles. Beach emphasizes that true strength comes from acknowledging our dependence on God and being pliable vessels for His glory.
When the Cross Is Too Heavy
By David Wilkerson0PSA 55:22ISA 40:29MAT 27:32LUK 9:23JHN 19:17ROM 8:282CO 12:9PHP 4:13HEB 4:151PE 5:7David Wilkerson emphasizes the profound truth that Jesus, despite calling us to take up our cross, experienced the weight of His own cross to the point of exhaustion. He highlights that Jesus did not carry His cross alone, as Simon of Cyrene was compelled to help Him, illustrating that we too cannot bear our burdens solely by our own strength. This sermon reveals that Jesus understands our struggles and weaknesses, reminding us that the true temptation lies in attempting to carry our crosses without relying on His grace. Ultimately, Wilkerson encourages believers to recognize their need for divine assistance in their trials, as Jesus' grace is sufficient for our weaknesses.
Personally Weak but Strong in Him
By A.W. Tozer0ISA 40:29ROM 6:4ROM 8:371CO 1:272CO 5:172CO 12:10GAL 2:20EPH 2:1PHP 4:131PE 5:10A.W. Tozer emphasizes the transformative power of Christ, illustrating how believers exchange their sin for righteousness and death for life through faith. He highlights the paradox of strength in weakness, as exemplified by Paul's declaration of being crucified with Christ yet living through Him. Tozer contrasts human efforts to improve oneself with God's method of creating a new being, where true strength is found in acknowledging one's weakness. This divine exchange leads to a deeper understanding of God's ways, which often diverge from human logic. Ultimately, believers find strength in their reliance on God, as Paul states, 'When I am weak, then am I strong.'