Happy Friday! Sometimes it’s difficult to manage our emotions. There are times when we want to immediately rebuke someone’s behavior and then there are other times when the Holy Spirit convicts our hearts and tells us to calm down, reflect and ponder on what we will say. In today’s reading, Paul will share a similar experience. Join me as we begin our reading in 2 Corinthians chapter two.
“So I decided that I would not bring you grief with another painful visit. 2 For if I cause you grief, who will make me glad? Certainly not someone I have grieved. 3 That is why I wrote to you as I did, so that when I do come, I won’t be grieved by the very ones who ought to give me the greatest joy. Surely you all know that my joy comes from your being joyful. 4 I wrote that letter in great anguish, with a troubled heart and many tears. I didn’t want to grieve you, but I wanted to let you know how much love I have for you.” – 2 Corinthians 2:1-4 NLT
Throughout 1 and 2 Corinthians we have or will read about Paul’s desire to disciple and love on the Corinthian church. In spite of his strong statements and rebukes for the false Apostles and division in the church which caused some members to be led astray, Paul continued to love on the church and point them to God and the love of Christ Jesus.
Sisters and brothers, there will be opposition against believers and the church, but we are still called to love and point others to Christ.
May God give you wisdom and discernment as you speak to believers and nonbelievers. May the Holy Spirit fill your heart and may your words and actions be aligned with the word of God and the love of Christ. May you ponder and reflect on what God desires for you to say verses what are emotions desire to speak from our mouths. There will be times for strong rebuke, however if we must rebuke do it all in love.
Father God, thank you for loving us unconditionally. Thank you for seeing us just as we are and for continuing to offer us love and forgiveness. Lord, thank you for being with us daily and for strengthening our faith. We desire to be a reflection of you and your love for us. Lord, be with us and transform us into who you have called us to be. Equip us with the love and forgiveness that we need to show and extend to others. Lord, guard our hearts and our tongues. Teach us your ways and imprint them on our hearts and minds. Lord, my your words overflow from our lips and build up others in Christ Jesus. In Jesus name we pray, amen.
Keep praying! Keep Trusting! Keep believing!
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