What does 2 Corinthians 1:10 mean?

Paul was sure that he and his companions were going to die (2 Corinthians 1:8). Nothing today is known about the cause or circumstances of the traumatic event he is describing, aside from the fact that it took place in Asia. The Corinthians had likely heard about it. It seems they may not have known how severe it really was. Paul has reported that he and his friends were burdened beyond their strength.

The outcome was positive, however. Because they were completely helpless against the suffering in their circumstances, Paul wrote, they were forced to rely on God completely. They entirely abandoned all hope of their own strength and turned entirely to God for their rescue (2 Corinthians 1:9). He now says God delivered them from the deadly peril and expresses his confidence that God will continue to deliver them.

Another benefit of suffering is found here. When believers turn to God for help in suffering and see how He provides exactly what is needed, their faith is strengthened. They continue to rely on him and grow confident in God's willingness and ability to save them.