Happy Monday! There are many things that we learn in life, but one trait that is good to know is how to relate to others. Lately, the term code switch has defined our ability to blend with various types of groups. We are coded to speak with one group one way and can quickly change our speech to adapt to a different environment. For example, we are coded to behave one way at work in a meeting and we change our behavior when we have a casual lunch with our friends. Today, in 1 Corinthians chapter 2, Paul is defending his lack of using lofty words to share the gospel message. Join me as we begin the chapter. 

Bible Verse – 1 Corinthians 2:1-5 NLT

“When I first came to you, dear brothers and sisters,^[a] I didn’t use lofty words and impressive wisdom to tell you God’s secret plan.^[b]2 For I decided that while I was with you I would forget everything except Jesus Christ, the one who was crucified. ³ I came to you in weakness—timid and trembling. ⁴ And my message and my preaching were very plain. Rather than using clever and persuasive speeches, I relied only on the power of the Holy Spirit. ⁵ I did this so you would trust not in human wisdom but in the power of God.”

Digging Deeper

In these verses, Paul further extends his third point of his statement on human wisdom compared to the power and wisdom of God. He wanted to make sure that their faith would not rest on any human wisdom, but on God’s power.

Reflection

Paul’s preaching to the Corinthians was nothing he could boast about. While he was well educated and had extensive experience relating the Good News to people, in that particular moment mentioned he did not rely on those things. Paul chose to allow the power of the Holy Spirit to speak through him.

Sisters and brothers, Paul understood the importance of ministering to people on a level that they could understand and apply it to their lives. We also must understand and utilize those qualities because we can be well educated, have the best intentions and know all the right words to say but without the leading of the Holy Spirit our words will be futile. 

My challenge to you is: 

• Ask the Lord to lead your conversations today. 
• Ask him to go before you and prepare you for the conversations and encounters you may have.
• Ask the Holy Spirit to speak through you.

Prayer

Father God, thank you for your word. Thank you for your Holy Spirit that speaks to us and reveals to us the meaning of your word that gives life. Lord, give us wisdom and discernment to follow after you with our whole heart. Lord, we are tired of living divided lives with one side that pleases you and the other side that pleases the world (or ourselves/flesh). Lord, we want to please you at all times. Lord, equip us with wisdom and knowledge of your word. Help us to be living examples of Christ in us. Humble us enough to understand how to share your word to people around us and love on them as you have loved on us. Lord, be with us as we go through today. May your presence be felt by us and overflow into those around us. Lord, heal the sick, restore the broken and comfort those who grieve. In Jesus name, amen. 

Keep praying! Keep trusting! Keep pursuing the Lord!

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Next Bible Study

On Thursday, January 15, we will begin our next Bible Study. We will meet via Zoom from 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. PST

Next Event

On January 3, 2026, we will be hosting a luncheon in Pasadena for the women at our partner facility from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. We are looking for a few volunteers to assist with the event. If you would like to volunteer, email: contactus@maryewhiteministries.com

Year End Contribution Statements 

A special thank you to those who have contributed and supported this nonprofit ministry. Your contributions and in kind donations helped us to host three 12-week Bible studies, provide hygiene essentials and supplies to partner facilities, and have our annual retreat. We could not have accomplished what we did without your generosity. Year End Contribution Statements will be mailed/emailed in January.

Do you have a prayer request? We would love to pray for you. 

Send your prayer request to: contactus@maryewhiteministries.com

Bible Reference: http://www.biblegateway.com

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