Paul responds to those accusing him and Timothy of lacking ‘official’ credentials. The church in Corinth was itself a letter of recommendation, written on human hearts by the Holy Spirit. It was the fruit of Paul and Timothy’s ministry.

Paul was confident in serving God. his confidence did not come from any human source, but from the competence given by God, as ministers of a new covenant. This new covenant was of the Spirit, that gives life. We should not fall into the trap of looking for confidence or competence in ourselves or our resumes. We have all we need through Christ to serve him boldly and ably.
Application: Lord, thank you for making me competent to be a minister of the new covenant.
One Word: He has made us competent