Compiled by: Georgeanne Falstrom, Intern
PARISH LAY MINISTRY ACADEMY
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Wednesday, March 8, 2006
(Daily Readings: Ps 49,53,119:49-72; Gen 37:25-36; 1Cor 2:1-13; Mark 1:14-28)

Eloquence or Superior Wisdom Not Needed!
By: Mary Keller

Scripture: "So that your faith might not rest on men’s wisdom, but on God’s power"... I Corinthians 2:5

How do you feel when asked to pray out loud in a group? Do you speak up in Bible study class? Do you like to share the good news of Jesus Christ with others?

Many Christians, especially those of the Lutheran persuasion, find doing any of the above uncomfortable. Why is that? For myself, I think I’ll be embarrassed, I’m afraid to share, I don’t think I know the "right" words to say, or I won’t be able to answer any questions which might arise. I feel that I need eloquence or superior wisdom to do any of these things.

Paul addresses this very issue in I Corinthians 2:1-13 where he talks about sharing God’s message on his first visit to Corinth. Paul states that he didn’t come with eloquence or superior wisdom; rather he came in weakness and fear, and with much trembling. He didn’t try to impress his audience with intellectual discussion; he relied on the power of the Holy Spirit. He did this "so that your faith might not rest on men’s wisdom, but on God’s power" – I Corinthians 2:5.

We’re told in verse 12 that we receive the Spirit who is from God. Wow! Instead of focusing on ME and my insecurities, I can let the spirit take control. The spirit will guide my words and allow me to rest my faith in GOD’S power, not in MY power. After all, it’s not my words that will change a person; rather it’s God and the Spirit who makes the change.

Thank God for his Holy Spirit who makes it possible to speak his message without needing eloquence or superior wisdom.

Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank you for your gift of the Holy Spirit. Help me to trust in your power and allow the Holy Spirit to guide my words. Give me courage to share your message with others. Amen.