We can feel stuck in the cycle of our past mistakes and our present condition - feeling hopeless that we will ever escape from our merry-go-round of failure. In this series, we will learn from the life and teachings of Paul, a man who described himself as the worst of all sinners, who found a new life and freedom in Christ.
HOW CAN I CHANGE?: THROUGH PAIN
2 Corinthians 12
You can CHANGE.
“Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me.” 1 Corinthians 12:7
1. God PERMITS thorns.
2. God has a PURPOSE in thorns, although we may not realize it.
“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know…” Romans 5:3a
“...we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” Romans 3b-5
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
3. God has POWER over thorns.
“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9
“It is doubtful whether God can bless a man greatly until he has hurt him deeply.” - A.W. Tozer
My Next Step toward Jesus today is: ____________________________
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