2 Corinthians 1:1-11
THE TENSION- I am inclined to avoid affliction because it’s not comfortable-
God intends to allow affliction for my comfort.
God’s mercy is not always preventing affliction, God’s mercy is preventing abandonment
We receive comfort inwardly so we would extend comfort outwardly
There is a unique fellowship that only can exist through suffering,
MYTH: God will not give you more than you can handle
TRUTH: God WILL give you more than you can handle
God WILL give you more than you can handle that you would learn to trust Him
The affliction of one unites the many
He may not deliver you in this life, but He will deliver you in the end
MAIN POINT- There is purpose in my affliction now, and a hope beyond it one day
CHALLENGE- 1.Don’t pray “deliver me FROM” prayer, instead pray “deliver me THROUGH” prayer
2.ASK: who’s been here before that God can use for me,
and who needs me here or may one day need me here?