When I am weak, He is strong

2 Corinthians 12

1. Paul’s thorn in the flesh (1-10)

  a. It was a messenger of Satan - The devil troubles us

  b. It had a positive purpose, which was to keep him from pride- The negatives in our lives often have positive purposes.

  c. He ask God specifically to take it away and God said no - We should not think that God is always going to take away our health problem or negative situation. Sometimes he will say no because he has a purpose.

  d. Instead of healing God offered him grace - What a joy to know that God's grace is sufficient for any need we have.

  e. He found the ability to have joy and even pleasure in difficulties, because in his weakness was when God's strength shined - We should develop this same attitude.

2. His willingness to sacrifice for them (11-19)

  a. He was willing to sacrifice for their well being.

  b. We need this spirit as we minister to people.

3. His desire for a visit without contention (20-21)

2 Corinthians 13

1. Though he wants no contention he will stand up to those who are not doing right (1-10)

2. Closing words (11-14)