Daily Reading: 2 Corinthians 10
For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. (2 Corinthians 10:4)
Devotional Thought: In 2 Corinthians 10, as Paul is defending his ministry to the irascible Corinthians, he makes a telling statement that applies to us as well: “The weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh…” (v. 4). How tempting it is – even in the church – to use sneak attacks, power plays, intimidation, and even deception to gain advantage and win arguments. Paul said he would have none of that.
Paul faced a very real battle in the Corinthian church. Many in the church had rejected Paul’s apostolic authority and had decided to follow the guidance of charismatic preachers who were leading them away from the true gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul refused to play that game.
You’ve seen it before – whether at church, or at work, or even at home: Christians try to establish their control using worldly tactics: withholding information or giving false information; threats and intimidation; displays of anger and emotional manipulation; character assassination; divide and conquer or bait and switch…
The list is endless. But these have no place in the church – not even in the personal practice of the Christian. These are the very strongholds that divine power destroys!
What are the weapons with which we fight? Prayer – fervent, persistent, and corporate. God’s Word – where else should we turn to determine the right? The Holy Spirit – God’s Spirit brings power to every situation where he is sought. The Gospel (good news) of Jesus Christ! Truth – clear, simple, and available to all. Love and forgiveness, hope and promise. Unity – let’s bring people together!
When we use God's weapons, we accomplish so much more! So the next time you face conflict or need to resolve differences, don’t fight as the world does. Take up the weapons of righteousness!
Prayer: Lord, it is so tempting to wage war as the world does. But our weapons are not of this world. They are divine! Help us to trust not only in you, but in your methods! Amen.
Psalm of the Day: Psalm 115:14-18
14 May the LORD give you increase, you and your children!
15 May you be blessed by the LORD, who made heaven and earth!
16 The heavens are the LORD's heavens, but the earth he has given to the children of man.
17 The dead do not praise the LORD, nor do any who go down into silence.
18 But we will bless the LORD from this time forth and forevermore. Praise the LORD!
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