Being Faithful

It seems to me that the world is becoming more and more aggressive. Where is grace, patience and mercy?

2 Corinthians 10:1-11:15

At the end of the day, it is not the commendation of people that matters, it is what God will say.

Who heard of Road Rage 20 years ago? The violence against Capitol Hill in the USA in January 2021 as people were stirred up to incredible scenes of anger and hate so surprised me. Ongoing racial injustice. Social media bombardments. Where is grace, patience and mercy?

Maybe you have been on the receiving end of attacks, physical, verbal, emotional and spiritual. Where others have hurt, offended and inflicted deep wounds. It cuts at the marrow of who you are and can be shattering. Paul had experienced this in his “Painful Visit” to the Corinthian church which sparked the tearful letter and Titus’ trip to the city. Joy filled Paul’s heart when many in the church expressed sorrow and sought reconciliation with Paul and with Christ. Such a powerful move of God. Yet some still attacked Paul, his apostolic authority, and remained against him.

In Chapter 10, Paul addresses this belligerent group directly. Paul once again reveals his heart and his Christ like attitude. His one and only aim is to seek reconciliation and alignment to the gospel. The result if not is judgment and loss. Paul loved the Corinthian church and wanted to see them live for Christ. Is that not the heart of each of us who know Jesus? For Paul, he wanted to faithfully serve and keep people to the cause and life of the gospel.

At the end of the day, it is not the commendation of people that matters, it is what God will say. So be faithful and seek his affirmation when we meet him face to face. Take on board these words of truth:

“For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.”

(2 Corinth 10:18)

God bless,

Pastor Stephen