Today’s scripture: 2 Cor 7:2-16 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (John Seksay):
Have you ever had a disagreement with a close friend or family member that left the two of you at odds with each other? For a while, communication can dwindle to an icy trickle or stop altogether. The situation feels terrible. It’s when you wish life had an “Undo” button!
Today’s reading represents a very important moment for Paul. He has been talking about turmoil engendered among the believers in Corinth that led to an apparent falling out with Paul and his apostles to the churches, which led to strained communications. In this passage, we hear that they have come to that sweetest of states: reconciliation.
While presenting his sense of things, Paul makes a telling observation:
“Now I rejoice, not because you were grieved, but because your grief led to repentance; for you felt a godly grief, so that you were not harmed in any way by us. For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation, and brings no regret, but worldly grief produces death.”
Apparently the dispute arose out of the struggles of a new church to understand just what it meant to be a Christian in a largely non-Christian world. As they wrestled with the issue, the outcome could be predicted, for both sides were growing in their understanding of the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The church and the apostles were united by a common source of inspiration to guide their lives. This shared source would steer both sides toward a common viewpoint in the long run.
Worldly disputes that arise through our own pride and selfishness have no such internal mechanism for resolution. The damage done can be both serious and lifelong. That’s why having the Holy Spirit at the center of your life is critical to growth in any church family.
Thought for the day: Lord, let me be sure to use the compass of the Holy Spirit to direct my day!
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.