Tuesday, May 22, 2018

May 27: Finding Strength

For what food do you have a weakness that might cause you to sacrifice your most recent diet attempt? I have more than one! It doesn't take much for me to give in to my weaknesses when it comes to food. But, what about other weaknesses we may face--those weaknesses that could affect our faith? These might be in the form of physical challenges that discourage us, spiritual battles that destroy us, or emotional issues that confuse us. Whatever our weaknesses, through Christ, we can become strong! This was the message Paul wanted us to understand in this week's upcoming study, Finding Strength.

Our study will focus on several ways in which Paul contrasted weakness and strength. He first focuses on his on "thorn in the flesh" (2 Corinthians 12:7-10). Then he turns to the Corinthians' view of Christ as possibly being weak when it comes to dealing with their own sin (2 Corinthians 13:2-4). Then he addresses how to remain strong in Christ in 2 Corinthians 13:5-8.

This progression should guide you to focus on the following TARGET for this study:

Believers can trust in God’s strength when confronted with their weaknesses.

ILLUSTRATIONS:
Louis Zamperini was an American POW in Japan during WWII. The movie, “Unbroken” was about his life in prison. Now, another movie, “Unbroken: Path to Redemption” recounts his life after returning home and receiving Christ. It is due to be released in October, 2018. Louis’ story is a great illustration of how weakness can become strength.

LINK: Unbroken News Report: http://video.foxnews.com/v/3960221659001/?#sp=show-clips  (7-minutes)

LOUIS ZAMPERINI INTERVIEW (15-MINUTES)

DOWNLOAD THE SUPPLEMENTAL TEACHING PLAN