Survivors!

People throughout the ages have survived many things. In some cases there has been great surprise that survival was even possible. Survival success has been attributed to such things as a strong will to do so (unwillingness to give up), wisdom to have done the right things (had been prepared or were resourceful), a miracle, or just sheer luck. Perhaps we may think we have what it takes to make it through the physical challenges of life, but do we have what it takes spiritually? What (or whom) do we focus on? On what (or whom) do we depend? Someone has said, “Man talks of the survival of the fittest, but the glory of the gospel is that it transforms the unfit.” [source: “sentence sermons”]

Some glory in what they see as their strengths. Paul -- recognizing the POWER OF GOD at work in his life -- boasted in his weakness because it was through His weakness that the STRENGTH OF GOD became evident. ( 2 Corinthians 12:9-10) Paul did not see himself as being fit to be called an apostle, but by the grace of God that’s what he was. ( 1 Corinthians 15:9-10) In Christ his life and perspective had been dynamically transformed. By GOD’S POWER Paul was made fit for the ministry he had been given.

Paul expressed that reality in the following words.
“(5) Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us. OUR SUFFICIENCY IS FROM GOD, (6) WHO HAS MADE US COMPETENT to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.” ( 2 Corinthians 3:5-6 ESV)

The Greek word translated “sufficiency” is “hikanotes”. The adjective “hikanos” means enough, sufficient, or fit. In verse six the word translated “competent” (ESV) is from the verb “hikanoo” meaning to make sufficient or render fit. [source: “Vine’s Expository Dictionary Of N.T. Words.] In spite of Paul’s weaknesses, God was able to provide the “ENOUGHNESS” or “FITNESS” for success in his life.

Like Paul, let us remember it is not solely because of our own ability and strength, but because of WHAT GOD IS DOING IN AND THROUGH US that we can find success. Then we can join him in confidently saying, “I can do ALL THINGS THROUGH HIM who strengthens me.” ( Philippians 4:13 ESV) Not only will we victoriously survive this realm, but will thrive in it and beyond as our life is transformed and renewed in Christ.

Have a great day BEING FIT BY GOD FOR EVEN MORE GLORY TO COME!
Carl

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