November 14, 2026 - 2 Corinthians 10-13

As Paul is forced to defend his own ministry against the false apostles, he makes an important observation:  “For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends” (10:18).  We seek, not the commendation of the world, but of the Lord.  And that which the world deems useful is not necessarily what the Lord considers important.  Paul was weak in so many ways.  He was bothered by that thorn in the flesh in order to keep him from being too elated and boastful.  The Lord said to him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (12:9).  That’s a good thing for us because we are definitely weak.  But, with Paul, “[We] will boast all the more gladly of [our] weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon [us]” (12:9).

All the way my Savior leads me.

What have I to ask beside?

Can I doubt his tender mercy,

Who thru’ life has been my Guide?

Heav’nly peace, divinest comfort,

Here by faith in him to dwell!

For I know, whate’er befall me,

Jesus fashions all things well.

All the way my Savior leads me,

Cheers each winding path I tread;

Gives me grace for ev’ry trial,

Feeds me with the living Bread.

Tho’ my weary steps may falter,

And my soul athirst may be,

Gushing from the Rock before me,

Lo! A spring of joy I see.   -- Fanny Crosby (1875)