Good morning! The definition of clean in the Merriam-Webster Dictionary is: free from dirt or pollution. As we begin our reading in 2 Corinthians chapter seven, we will read Paul’s direction for the Corinthians to cleanse – free itself from dirt, more so to purify themselves or separate themselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit (the whole person) from everyone who pollutes the truth. Join me as we begin chapter seven.

Bible Verse – 2 Corinthians 7:1-4 NLT

“Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God.

² Please open your hearts to us. We have not done wrong to anyone, nor led anyone astray, nor taken advantage of anyone. ³ I’m not saying this to condemn you. I said before that you are in our hearts, and we live or die together with you. ⁴ I have the highest confidence in you, and I take great pride in you. You have greatly encouraged me and made me happy despite all our troubles.”

Reflection

The promises in these verses refer to God’s assurance of His presence and fellowship to those who obey Him (refer to 2 Corinthians 6:16, 6:17b-18). As we focus on God and give reverence to Him, that relationship will mature, which will produce obedience and growth in holiness, an increased Christ likeness. A progressive holiness, not perfection or sinless perfection but a progressive transformation to be more like Christ externally and internally (the whole person – in our mind and in our actions).

The Apostle Paul continued to express His love for the Corinthian church, and demonstrated that he was not there to mislead them, but there were others who were trying to turn their hearts away from God. The beauty of Apostle Paul is that he did not give up on them. Despite his troubles, he had pride and joy in the Corinthians because he could see God was at work in them (1 Corinthians 1:4-9).

Sisters and brothers, may God’s word always be at work in us – cleaning, transforming and equipping us to do more for His glory. 

Prayer

Father God, thank you for today. Thank you for Your promises that hold true for us all. Lord of and over all, thank you for never giving up on us. Lord forgive us for the sins we have committed (known and unknown). Continue to change our hearts and our minds. Help us to see the poor and broken in spirit and be a beacon of light/hope to those around us. Lord, teach us to examine your truth and live in obedience to your word. May our lives and our obedience to you bring you glory.

Lord, continue to heal those who are not well. Comfort those who are experiencing grief. Strength the broken and brokenhearted. Help those in need of financial assistance – continue to provide. Be with those struggling at work or seeking employment and give them favor where favor is needed. Lord, be with those who are traveling this summer and keep them safe. Lord, keep our hearts, ears, and minds open to opportunities that you put before us. Surround us with your presence and help us to feel you near.

In Jesus name, amen.

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