Warriors routinely encounter difficult situations, some of them life-threatening. Through training and experience, they grow in their ability to survive the most difficult circumstances. In most respects this is good. Since 9/11 we have developed a military force that is unmatched at any time in our history. But training and experience can also create a false sense of confidence in our own abilities. This verse represents an admission by the veteran missionary, Paul, that the hardships he faced nearly killed him. But Paul quickly points out a positive outcome. He was forced to rely on the Lord more. Have you ever felt overwhelmed, even to the verge of death? Follow Paul’s example. He learned to call on God to rescue him.
“Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead” (2 Corinthians 1:9, NKJV).
Facing a difficult situation? Don’t rely solely on your abilities and experience. Cry out to the Lord. He will hear you and provide the support you need.
The content of this article comes from “The Warrior’s Bible” (2014) and is copyrighted by Life Publishers International. Used with permission.
