The Pilgrim Path---Second Corinthians 1: 8 – 11 

For we do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again. You must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many.

“SO UTTERLY BURDENED…”

In life and labor, Paul the Apostle was aware of what it was to be overwhelmed. To have that uncomfortable sense, “I have no strength for this chapter of my existence. Why, I am obviously about to die.” Well, we cannot rely upon ourselves. We do not possess the power of a paper napkin. The LORD has arranged such situations to demonstrate His power to us (II Corinthians 12: 9). We also need the prayers of the saints. We are meant to divulge our brokenness and weakness in order that the brothers and sisters will pray for our “dependence upon Jesus” for the path ahead. We all win when we live this way.

From Charles Haddon Spurgeon: He has delivered us, so let us give him our gratitude. He is delivering us, so let us give him our confidence. He will deliver us, so let us begin now to praise him for mercies that are yet to come and for grace that we have not tasted yet but that we will taste in his good time.

Grace & Peace in Jesus, The Only Redeemer of broken and wretched souls, Pastor Jason