“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
Observation:
Paul and his companions had gone through such peril that drove them to the end of themselves. They were at a point where they felt they were at the edge of forfeiting their very lives. Yet, though under this grave situation, they put their hope and trust in God. I have been driven into situations where I was helpless under the weight of anxiety and stress, trying to figure out what to do. No answers came. Nothing from my experience, wisdom, strength, or options would save me. It was only then I surrendered to God. Sometimes, God will bring us through situations where we would face lions or a burning furnace. He does not save us from going through those but in those times. And it is only in those times we surrender can God comes in to help us through.
Application:
Paul went through treacherous persecution for sharing the gospel. And rather than try to rely on himself, he surrendered to God. When we surrender, we give up all of our control over the situation in our lives to God. It is not going into autopilot every time something terrible happens. Conversely, it says,”God, I am out of options. Take this situation; whatever your will is, I will obey.” In this, we no longer rely upon our resources but trust Him.
Hold tight to God. We cannot hold on to control when we are holding on to Him. We will want to take back control over the situation when things look less bleak but learn to refrain and continue to hold on to Him. This may make us fall on our knees several times daily, but let our pleas be made to God.
Prayer:
Dear God Almighty, I would like to ask that your will be done on earth, in my life, family, church, heart, and mind, as it is in heaven. Please work in me and give me the strength to walk through the hard times with you. I surrender control and the desire to be anxious and worried when things are troubling. I love you, and I am so grateful that I can come to You in the name of Jesus and that you live in me. Thank you so much! In Your Name, Jesus! Amen!
