Highlight – 2 Corinthians 1:8–9

[8] For we do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. [9] 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. (ESV)

Explain – Paul was human.  The burdens of life and ministry felt overwhelming at times.  But, God works all things for good–even the burdens that cause us to despair of life itself.  Those burdens cause us to cry out to God and rely on Him.  Through suffering we experience a unique and personal fellowship with Jesus.  

Apply – I’ve seen this happen in my own life.  I have such a love/hate feeling toward those seasons when I was so broken and it made me desperate for God.  They have been some of the most painful, yet fulfilling seasons.  There is in those times a special closeness with God.  I would also say there was a special closeness with my wife as we faced those seasons together.  

Explain – “Father, I thank you even for the hard times that seem to break us.  In the breaking we turn to you and experience you in fresh ways.  We desperately need this.  I surrender myself to your perfect will and pray that I will be diligent in relying on you in everything.”