In this passage we notice that Paul is stressing a difference. The difference is between what he writes and his physical presence. Some might think this is a contradiction, or an indication of a fault. However, there is something more important to notice here.

Paul's writings, which are bold, are made not by his wisdom, are not motivated by his desires, and in the end are not supposed to reflect his physical being. They are done by the inspiration of God, and as such, the boldness with which he writes is not his own. It is the certainty given him by the Holy Spirit. It is the definite proclamation of someone who has seen the truth of what he is saying beyond any doubt. The certainty of that knowledge leads to boldness.

However, his physical presence is another matter entirely. Physical "presence" is usually determined by the flesh. It is a reflection of your own personality, an emanation-or product-of your own being, your own desires, your own self-will. A servant of God does not seek his own following, or seek to have his own charisma. Meekness and gentleness "of Christ" is the hallmark of the person who is following Christ. Thus, you do not seek to advance your own person, nor seek honor for yourself. You let yourself be considered "base," for the only importance to your being is the message you bring.

That message is the salvation of God, and the spiritual realities which exist in this world and outside of it. Those are the important, foundational things which give meaning to all that is. Those are the things that we need to be bold about. When a person realizes that this world and this flesh are nothing but a temporary stage in the true purpose of their existence, personal "charisma" and fleshly exaltation are not just undesirable, but are downright worthless, and the desire of others to have it seems ridiculous.

One way to see if someone has been truly touched and sent by God is to see what kind of physical presence he or she tries to establish among others. Someone who seeks to dominate others with his own accomplishments and/or importance is someone who has not been humbled by the Spirit of God. No one can stand in the presence of God and not come away with an awe inside, and a greatly reduced sense of self.

May we continue to seek the presence of God, so that His boldness will be in our hearts, and Christ's meekness in our lives. We are not doing this for ourselves, but for Him. [ The End ]