Definition: But I beseech [you], that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Corinthians 10:2. It's a really important and slightly complex passage about pride and self-reliance. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: The author of this verse is acknowledging that he himself feels a little proud or confident, even though he thinks he’s superior to others. He’s worried about appearing bold – strong and assertive – when he’s in front of people who might see him as less impressive. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "But I beseech [you], that I may not be bold..." - This is a plea or request from the author to himself. He’s asking for a shift in his attitude. "...when I am present with that confidence..." – He's feeling confident right now . He's thinking he can handle things and people better than others. "...wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh." - This is the tricky part. "The flesh" refers to our human nature – our desires, emotions, and ways of acting. He's thinking about people who think he’s being natural, honest, and good – perhaps because they see him as just like them. He’s worried that they might perceive him as less than genuine or worthy. In simpler terms: He’s recognizing a tendency to feel proud and powerful, even when he's not truly confident. He worries about appearing better than others simply because he thinks he's naturally superior. What does this mean for us? This verse is about humility – acknowledging that we all have flaws and tendencies towards pride. It’s a reminder to: Don't be overly self-focused: We shouldn’t constantly think about how we appear to others. Be open to being seen as more than just ourselves: Recognizing our human nature helps us approach people with humility and understanding. Overall, the verse is encouraging him to temper his pride and recognize that true strength comes from recognizing our dependence on God and accepting that we are not perfect. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Give some examples of how this applies to real-life situations?