Scripture Reference: 2 Corinthians 1:1-11

Remember What God Does Through You – Continued

Please read 2 Corinthians 1:4b-7 for background to this section.

From last lesson: However, Paul made it clear that we do not need to experience exactly the same trials in order to be able to share God’s encouragement and comfort. . . . Of course, if we have experienced similar afflictions and tribulations, they can help us identify better with others and know better how they feel; but our experiences cannot alter the comfort of God.

Later in 2 Corinthians 12, Paul will give us an example of this principle. He was given a thorn in the flesh, some kind of physical suffering that constantly came against him. We do not know what this “thorn in the flesh” was, nor do we truly need to know. What we do know is that Paul experienced the grace of God and because of it and what he learned, shared that encouragement with us. No matter what your trial may be, “My grace is sufficient for you” (2 Corinthians 12:9) is a promise you can claim. We would not have that promise if Paul had not suffered.

The subject of human suffering is not easy to understand, for there are mysteries to the working of God that we will never grasp until we get to heaven. Sometimes we suffer because of our own sin and rebellion, as did Jonah. Sometimes we suffer to keep us from sinning, as was the case with Paul (2 Corinthians 12:7). Suffering can perfect our character (Romans 5:1-5) and help us to share the character of God (Hebrews 12:1-11).

But suffering can also help us to minister to and serve others. In every church, there are mature saints of God who have suffered and experienced God’s grace, and they are the great “encouragers” in the congregation. Paul experienced trouble, not as punishment for something he had done, but as preparation for something he was yet going to do, minister to others in need. Just think of the trials that King David had to endure in order to give us the great encouragement that we find in the Psalms.

Second Corinthians 1:7 makes it clear that there was always the possibility that the situation might be reversed: the Corinthian believers might go through trials and receive God’s grace so that they might encourage others. God sometimes calls a church family to experience special trials in order that He might bestow on them special abundant grace.

God’s gracious encouragement helps us if we learn to endure. “Patient endurance” is an evidence of faith. If we become bitter or critical of God, if we rebel instead of submit, then our trials will work against us instead of for us. The ability to endure difficulties patiently, without giving up, is a mark of spiritual maturity (Hebrews 12:1-7).

To Be Continued

Adapted and modified excerpts from Warren W. Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary Volume 1.
Unless otherwise noted, Scripture taken from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®, ESV © 2016 by Crossway Bibles.
Where noted, Scripture taken from the New King James Version®, NKJV © 1982 by Thomas Nelson.
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