Here's your daily devotional!

If you wish to receive these free devotionals every weekday by E-mail, click the button below. Note: you'll have to log in or create your membership account first. Membership in the League is free. Join now!

Sign up to receive the Daily Devotional

“"Strength Under Control"”

Thoughts for Today:

Paul had previously written a strong letter of correction to the church at Corinth. Regardless of their strong support and general obedience to his instruction, there still remained a minority faction that was sharply critical of him. They said, "Paul writes big words, but in person he's not very impressive at all. He's just a tentmaker, an ordinary man, and certainly no apostle with the right to rebuke us!"

Sometimes Paul was misunderstood because he wrote and conducted himself with the same humility and gentleness of Jesus. Our Lord didn't shout so that His voice would be heard above everyone else; and He didn't walk around with a crown on His head demanding to be worshipped. In fact, His outward appearance and position in society was just the opposite, a mere carpenter. Our Savior conducted Himself as one who was meek and lowly. And it's our position as well -- if we are truly to walk as one of His followers.

I think it's important to remember that humility and gentleness do not indicate weakness. Biblical gentleness or meekness can best be described as strength under control. I like that definition. It perfectly reflects the nature, power and persona of Jesus. And it is this same controlled strength that Paul uses as he deals with the Corinthians.

Questions to Ponder:

How do you demonstrate the strength of Christ? Is it with humility and gentleness or something else? If not, how?

Sign up to receive the Daily Devotional

There's nothing like God's Word to create purpose in your life that lasts the entire day and beyond. We encourage you to Read, Carry and Share the Word of God. Pocket Devotions are sent by E-mail every weekday (Monday to Friday). On weekends we encourage you to be creative and study on your own in any area of Scripture where God leads you.

You can start from Day 1 at any time. Messages are sent automatically. Subscribe now! You may unsubscribe at any time.

About the author

Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.