“Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God” (2 Corinthians 3:5 ESV).
Paul wanted the Corinthians to know that his confidence did not rest in himself. He claimed no self-sufficiency, no self-confidence, and no self-empowerment. His calling, message, and authority all came from and were continually empowered by God. Although he pointed to the Corinthian believers as his “letter of recommendation” (2 Cor. 3:2), he clarified that the true author was God Himself, while Paul was merely the pen in God’s hand. This confession both humbles and encourages: it humbles us because we cannot boast in ourselves, and it encourages us because God provides everything necessary for life and ministry.
Our culture prizes self-esteem and self-confidence, but biblical Christianity points us in the opposite direction. God often allows circumstances that strip us of self-reliance, so that we might learn to rely wholly on Him. Wasn’t Paul struck blind on the road to Damascus before he could truly see? In the same way, the Lord teaches us that our adequacy is not in ourselves, but in Christ. When we esteem Him above ourselves, we discover our true worth and identity in Him. And when our confidence is placed in God alone, we are made sufficient for whatever task He assigns. Whether in ministry, vocation, or witness, we can boldly step forward, not because we are enough, but because our sufficiency is from God.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, forgive us for the times we have trusted in our own wisdom and strength. Teach us to to rest in the sufficiency You provide through Christ. Help us to esteem Jesus above all else, finding our true identity and adequacy in Him. Make us useful instruments in Your hands, ready for any good work You call us to do. In Jesus’ name, amen.