Tag Archive for 'II Corinthians'

Beat Up, But Still Upbeat

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Paul’s life speaks volumes to us about the reality of adversity and how to overcome it.    According to our text, he was hard pressed on every side, “but not crushed.”  He was perplexed, “but not in despair.”  He was persecuted, “but not abandoned.”  He was struck down, “but not destroyed.”  With God’s help, the Apostle Paul emerged as one who was beat up, but still upbeat.  How did he maintain this amazing outlook in the face of suffering?  What can we learn from Paul’s example? Let’s examine the text more closely to find out. Scripture from II Corinthians 4:5-12.

Beat Up, But Still Upbeat

Published by Mark Jarvinen on June 14, 2009 in Sermons. Closed

Knowing God’s Will

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What is God’s will for my life? What path should I take? These were burning questions for me at an earlier period in my life as I faced career choices and the question of whom to marry. It could be that you are struggling with these issues in your life even now. It’s comforting to know that God has a plan for our lives. Paul writes, “For we are his (God’s) workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10). Not only does God have a plan, but He promises to reveal it to us, as we read in Proverbs 3:5-6- “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Continue reading ‘Knowing God’s Will’

Published by Mark Jarvinen on November 16, 2007 in Commentary. Closed