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If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

“I’m better than you are! I’m faster! I’m stronger, and I’m smarter!”

“No, you’re not! I can do everything better than you!”

Things were getting tense on the playground. Andy and Jake were trying to prove who was better. Soon they were racing, lifting heavy things, and even trying to outdo each other on tests. “See? I’m better. I’m awesome!” So much bragging. So . . . much . . . showing off.

The apostle Paul worked really hard to tell people about Jesus in a big city called Corinth. It wasn’t easy. Lots of people didn’t want to listen. But God helped Paul, and new churches started growing all over the city. After Paul left, some other teachers came to those churches—and they started bragging. “We’re better than Paul! We speak better. We’re smarter. We’re more important!”

Sadly, the people believed those “super-apostles.”

So how did Paul respond? Did he say, “Well, I’ve started way more churches than you,” or “Jesus himself picked me to be an apostle—did he pick you?” Paul could have bragged. He had lots of reasons to. But instead, he said something surprising: “If I am going to brag, I’ll brag about how weak I am.”

Wait—what?

Yes! Paul knew that when he was weak or going through hard times, Jesus’ strength and love stood out the most. When Paul felt small, Jesus showed how big he is. When Paul suffered, people saw how much Jesus helped him. That’s what Paul wanted people to see—not how great he was, but how great Jesus is.

And that’s true for us too. We don’t need to show off or act like we’re better than others. Instead, we can thank Jesus for loving us every day. We can even tell others how Jesus helped us when we were scared, tired, sad, or made a mistake. Our weakness gives Jesus a chance to shine.

Dear Jesus, when we feel weak, show your strength. When we’re hurt, bring healing. When we mess up, show us your forgiveness. Help us tell others about your amazing love. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Questions for Middle School and Above

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