For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but it is God's power to us who are being saved. For it is written:  I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and I will set aside the understanding of the experts. Where is the philosopher? Where is the scholar? Where is the debater of this age? Hasn't God made the world's wisdom foolish? For since, in God's wisdom, the world did not know God through wisdom, God was pleased to save those who believe through the foolishness of the message preached. For the Jews ask for signs and the Greeks seek wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Gentiles. Yet to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ is God's power and God's wisdom, because God's foolishness is wiser than human wisdom, and God's weakness is stronger than human strength. Brothers, consider your calling: Not many are wise from a human perspective, not many powerful, not many of noble birth. Instead, God has chosen what is foolish in the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen what is weak in the world to shame the strong. God has chosen what is insignificant and despised in the world--what is viewed as nothing--to bring to nothing what is viewed as something, so that no one can boast in His presence. But it is from Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who became God-given wisdom for us--our righteousness, sanctification, and redemption, in order that, as it is written: The one who boasts must boast in the Lord. 

- 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 (HCSB)

When I first read these verses many years ago, my initial thoughts were, “Why did Paul describe the message of God as foolishness?” And why would Paul ever consider God being weak in any manner? What Paul is describing here is known as a Divine Paradox. The notion of the cross appears counterintuitive and almost laughable when viewed from a human perspective. The crucified Savior, from a worldly standpoint, seems to embody foolishness and weakness. God’s wisdom leads Him to select what the world perceives as foolish and weak to achieve His purposes, thereby rendering worldly wisdom ineffective. For the follower of Christ, it is through His power that we find salvation.

Within Christianity lies a profound paradox that defies human reasoning, humbling logic itself. The path to exaltation begins with genuine humility, and fulfillment comes through self-emptying. Embracing this paradox involves releasing our grasp, allowing us to receive abundantly as we give, and discovering true life in the surrender of self. Let’s look at another such paradox in Matthew 10:39.

Anyone finding his life will lose it, and anyone losing his life because of Me will find it. 

- Matthew 10:39 (HCSB)

In Matthew 10:39, we are reminded of the profound nature of divine paradoxes found throughout the Bible. These paradoxes challenge our human understanding and perception, encouraging us to seek deeper truths beyond the surface level. They serve as a reminder that the ways of God often transcend our logical reasoning, inviting us to approach matters with humility and open hearts. As we continue our spiritual journey, let us remain open to the mysteries and wonders that these divine paradoxes unfold before us, guiding us toward a more profound connection with Christ and a more meaningful life.

Daily Life Application:

• Humble yourself, acknowledging that all good things, including wisdom, come from God. Make your boast in the Lord, not in human achievements.
• In moments of distress or when facing difficult situations, cultivate genuine humility. Surrendering the need for complete control and understanding can open the door to greater spiritual insights and inner peace.
• Allow yourself to release control over circumstances that are beyond your power to change. Trust in God’s plan and wisdom, even when it seems unclear or contrary to human logic.
• Embrace the concept of giving to others without expecting anything in return. Offer kindness, compassion, and support to those in need, recognizing that true fulfillment often comes from selfless acts of love.

Questions to Ponder:

• How can you cultivate genuine humility in your daily life and learn to surrender control over circumstances beyond your power to change?
• In what ways can you practice both giving and receiving in your relationships and interactions with others? How might this balance contribute to a deeper sense of fulfillment?
• Consider the aspects of your life where you feel the most connected to God’s wisdom. How can you nurture and expand these areas to enhance your overall well-being and spiritual growth?
• How do you view the idea of finding true life through self-emptying or surrendering of self?

Continue Reading:

• Proverbs 3:5-6: An exhortation to trust in the Lord and not lean on our own understanding.
• James 3:13-18: The contrast between earthly wisdom and wisdom from above.
• Jeremiah 9:23-24: A call to boast in the Lord rather than in human wisdom, power, or riches.

;

---

If you made it this far, please consider commenting below, subscribing, and also sharing on your social media sites. Most importantly, I ask for your prayers. I write this weekly blog as an outlet in my fight against depression. However, my hope is that something I write here may help others who may be struggling. If you would like to help with my battle against depression, check out my online Etsy store. Most proceeds are donated to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

If you or someone you know may be contemplating suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or by dialing 988. You may also text HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line. In emergencies, call 911, or seek care from a local hospital or mental health provider.

Scripture quotations marked HCSB are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Used by Permission HCSB ©1999,2000,2002,2003,2009 Holman Bible Publishers. Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Holman CSB®, and HCSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.