A Lesson Learned in Suffering

We often live under the illusion that we are self-sufficient and that we only have to rely on ourselves. We work hard to pay the bills and provide for our families, we work out on a regular basis to maintain our health, and we develop this idea that we can fix anything and provide for ourselves if only we work hard enough.
But, there are times when reality comes crashing in and we realize that we must rely upon God and not ourselves. Paul had one of those moments and he talks about it here in 2 Corinthians 1.

Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. (2 Corinthians 1:9, ESV)

In his suffering, Paul says that he learned to rely upon God and not on himself. Who do you rely on in life? Are you trying to do everything in your own power? Do you feel self-sufficient?

Paul’s words to us here in 2 Corinthians 1 are a good reminder to each and everyone of us that we are totally dependent upon God to provide for our needs. In both good times and bad times, our only hope is for God’s provision and protection. May we learn to acknowledge God’s provision throughout every season of life so that we can confidently face times of suffering assured that God will provide.