This chapter gives some insight to Paul. While he was a prolific and powerful author, apparently he was not so impressive in person. Rather than try to defend what he is in person, Paul simply says that he is the same whether he is in person or writing from afar. He boasts not in himself but in what God does and he shows honor for being a part of God's work and plan.

This chapter to me says a lot about what it takes to build relationships Paul could have gotten very defensive but instead he just stated facts. He did not deny that perhaps he is more forceful in writing than in person. He aludes that perhaps that is what is required of capturing their attention but once he has their attention, he can turn to a quieter way of talking to them in person.

I think there are some good lessons here for me in terms of working with others and building relationships.