ADVANCE WHILE BLEEDING
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
"And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong."
Supporting Texts: Psalm 73:26, Isaiah 41:10, Romans 8:37, Philippians 4:13
INTRODUCTION:
Life is often unpredictable, and challenges come when we least expect them. Yet, the call of God for every believer is to press on, even when facing pain, setbacks, or difficulties. The concept of "advancing while bleeding" speaks to the faith and resilience required to keep moving forward despite wounds and struggles.
Paul’s experience reveals that suffering does not disqualify us from victory or progress; rather, it can be the very platform upon which God’s power is demonstrated. When we are weak and wounded, God’s strength is perfected in us, enabling us to overcome obstacles and continue advancing toward our divine purpose.
Every believer will face moments of ‘bleeding’—whether emotional, spiritual, or physical. But the journey is not to stop or retreat. Instead, it is to move forward with faith, knowing that God’s grace sustains and empowers us. This message encourages us to lean on God’s strength and keep advancing no matter what.
1. BLEEDING IS NOT THE END OF THE JOURNEY
Bleeding or suffering is a part of the Christian journey, but it does not signal defeat.
a) Paul’s Thorn in the Flesh Was a Source of Strength
God used Paul’s weakness to reveal His power (2 Corinthians 12:9).
b) Our Weaknesses Make God’s Strength More Evident
God’s glory shines brighter in our darkest moments (Psalm 73:26).
c) Challenges Are Temporary, God’s Purpose Is Eternal
Difficulties refine us, not define us (Romans 8:18).
d) God Commands Us to Fear Not and Be Strong
His presence gives us courage (Isaiah 41:10).
Biblical Example – Job maintained faith despite severe loss and suffering (Job 1:20-22)
2. THE GRACE OF GOD IS SUFFICIENT TO ADVANCE
God’s grace is enough to empower us even in pain.
a) Grace Comes in Our Weakest Moments
We receive divine strength when we are weakest (2 Corinthians 12:9).
b) Grace Enables Endurance and Perseverance
It keeps us going when natural strength fails (Hebrews 4:16).
c) Grace Opens Doors Even When Circumstances Are Tough
God’s favour accompanies grace (Proverbs 3:5-6).
d) Grace Transforms Pain Into Progress
What seems like a setback becomes a set-up for breakthrough (Romans 8:28).
Biblical Example – Peter walked on water only by faith amid a storm (Matthew 14:28-31)
3. FAITH KEEPS YOU MOVING FORWARD
Faith is the engine that drives progress amid pain.
a) Faith Sees Beyond Present Circumstances
It focuses on God’s promises, not problems (Hebrews 11:1).
b) Faith Is Not the Absence of Trouble but the Presence of God
Trusting God gives peace amid chaos (John 16:33).
c) Faith Enables Bold Steps Despite Fear or Weakness
David faced Goliath with faith, not physical strength (1 Samuel 17:45).
d) Faith Produces Victory Over Every Challenge
Victory is assured when faith is active (Romans 8:37).
Biblical Example – The woman with the issue of blood pressed through the crowd and was healed (Mark 5:25-34)
4. PERSEVERANCE BRINGS DIVINE BREAKTHROUGH
Continuing despite pain ushers in God’s breakthroughs.
a) Perseverance Is A Mark of Spiritual Maturity
It develops endurance and hope (James 1:2-4).
b) God Rewards Those Who Refuse to Quit
Persistence opens heavenly doors (Galatians 6:9).
c) Many Biblical Heroes Advanced Only After Great Trials
Trials are part of the journey to destiny (Romans 5:3-5).
d) Your Breakthrough Is Closer Than You Think
Keep moving forward; the victory is coming (Isaiah 40:31).
Biblical Example – Joseph’s perseverance through prison led to his promotion (Genesis 41:39-41)
5. THE POWER OF CHRIST RESTS UPON YOU IN WEAKNESS
God’s power is most evident when you are weakest.
a) Strength Is Made Perfect in Weakness
God’s power fills your insufficiency (2 Corinthians 12:9).
b) You Are Stronger Than Your Circumstances
Divine strength flows through you (Psalm 18:32).
c) Weakness Opens You to God’s Manifest Presence
Humility invites His power (James 4:6).
d) In Your Bleeding, You Are Becoming a Testimony
Your story will inspire and encourage others (Revelation 12:11).
Biblical Example – Paul rejoiced in his weaknesses because God’s power was at work (2 Corinthians 12:10)
CONCLUSION:
Advancing while bleeding is not easy, but it is the mark of true faith. When you choose to move forward despite pain and challenges, you align yourself with the strength and grace of God. Your bleeding is not your defeat—it is the place where God’s power is perfected.
Trust that God’s grace is sufficient for you. Lean on His strength, hold fast to faith, and persevere. The breakthrough is on the horizon, and your testimony will encourage many.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, empower me to advance even when I feel weak and wounded.
2. Father, strengthen my faith to trust You in every challenge.
3. Grant me grace to persevere and never give up on Your promises.
4. Let Your power rest upon me when I am weakest.
5. Help me turn my trials into testimonies of Your faithfulness.
