Devo 1 Cor 1

 20Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of
this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? 21For since in the
wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased
through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. 22Jews
demand miraculous signs and Greeks look for wisdom, 23but we preach Christ
crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, 24but to those
whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the
wisdom of God. 25For the foolishness of God is wiser than man’s wisdom, and the
weakness of God is stronger than man’s strength.
 26Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were
wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble
birth. 27But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God
chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28He chose the lowly
things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to
nullify the things that are, 29so that no one may boast before him. 30It is because
of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—
that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31Therefore, as it is written:
“Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.”

MEDITATION
1. What pictures come to mind when thinking about powerful, successful
people?  How do these ideas sometimes conflict with following Christ?  How
have I confused the world’s wisdom with God’s wisdom?
2. Have I witnessed a situation where God used the weak, lowly, and despised
to fulfil his plan of salvation?

Personal Note:
I think of people who are like executives with lots of wealth and people under his influence.  There is nothing wrong with being successful.  However, when one depends on his/her success rather than depending on God, this person becomes a fool.  Worldly wisdom never produces blessings, while God's wisdom brings love and blessings to the world.

I recalled Nick, the guy who grew up without arms and legs.  He was powerfully used by God to share the message of love.  I have seen poor pastors in Africa who was willing to suffer with the people in building up schools and orphanages.

I am thankful that God turned me from the proud and arrogant person into who I am.  I am willing to surrender myself for his glory.