This message on 2 Corinthians 1:1-11 was preached at Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel in Dubuque, Iowa (October 29, 2006). This beginning message for the book of 2 Corinthians shows us that God's chief is concern is not to spare us from affliction and hardship. Rather this passage teaches us that affliction, hardship, and difficulties teach us to depend on God alone.