Today’s Thought “Opposing Factions” G. Ward 2 Corinthians 11 24 Five times I received from the Jews thirty-nine lashes. 25 Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, a night and a day I have spent adrift at sea. 26 I have been on frequent journeys, in dangers from rivers, dangers from robbers, dangers from my countrymen, dangers from the Gentiles, dangers in the city, dangers in the wilderness, dangers at sea, dangers among false brothers; 27 I have been in labor and hardship, through many sleepless nights, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure. Did the Apostle Paul pray No weapon formed against him would prosper (Isaiah’s prophecy yet fulfilled pertinent to the Millennial kingdom – 54:17), or did he bind Satan (a defeated foe, absolutely humiliated by the LONE work of Jesus) concerning his many sufferings? Did Paul have a mother/father/aunt or uncle praying for him concerning his safety? While sufferings occur and whereas believers are established on precepts from the Almighty, any will find perseverance/endurance in the strength the Lord provides when he’s convinced that what’s written is for his benefit and the more pervasive, false narrative from esteemed members of society, usurping/subverting Truth pale against Holy God loving you with guarantee in never leaving or forsaking you (cf. Jn.14:1-3, Ro.8:18).