2 Corinthians 4:1-18 - Have you ever felt worn down or beat up in your attempt to follow Jesus? Have you ever tried to minister his word only to be rejected or mocked for talking about a crucified Lord? Paul knew what that was like and in 2 Corinthians 4, he defends both his ministry and his message. He refused to practice underhanded schemes or twist the scriptures for personal gain. Instead, he proclaimed the plain truth in the sight of God. Now, ministry like that may be ignored or opposed, but Paul’s confidence was in the Creator who makes new creations. Instead of weakness and suffering being disqualifying features, Paul claimed that genuine gospel ministry is marked by power in weakness and life in death. In the end, the apostle encourages all of us not to lose heart because our great God can use momentary affliction to produce for us an eternal weight of glory. So may we continue following in the steps of our Lord proclaiming his name to all who will hear.