That your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God. – 1 Corinthians 2:5
After Paul’s conversion, he went on at least three missionary journeys to preach the gospel to the known world. He describes the horrible things he went through to spread the gospel in 2 Corinthians 11:23-27. You wouldn’t think that the man who faced shipwrecks, beatings, and imprisonment for his faith would have the fear of public speaking. The Apostle Paul explained to the Corinthians, “I was with you in weakness and in fear and much trembling, and my speech and my message were not in plausible words of wisdom” (1 Corinthians 2:3-4).
How and why did Paul face his fears? He went on to say that his speech was, “in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.” Earlier in verse 2, he declared that his focus was “Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” His concern was for the believers in Corinth. He overcame his fear out of love for them and love for God. 1 John 4:17 assures, “Perfect love casts out fear.”
Whether you have fear of public speaking or some other fear, you can learn this from Paul: focus on Jesus Christ and Him crucified, let your faith rest on the power of God, not human wisdom, and act out of love for God and others. As you pray for your personal needs, and for the issues of the country, invite the Lord in any and every situation, knowing that all things are possible with Him (Matthew 19:26).
Today’s Verse: 1 Corinthians 2:5
so that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: 1 Peter 5:6-11
6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, 7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. 8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. 10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 11 To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
