Changing me softly with His Words

‎2 Corinthians 7:8-11

Paul wrote two letters to the Christians in Corinth (1 Corinthians and 2 Corinthians). . His first letter was an accountability letter. Paul had concern about the division in the church, sexual immorality, love, etc. (1 Corinthians 1:10, 5:18, 13). It was no the most pleasant letter but Paul was doing his best and trying to hold the church accountable for their actions. 

By the time Paul wrote his second letter to the church of Corinth, the church had received his first letter and found no joy in it. And Paul addressed this temporary sadness. He told them it was not his intention to make his fellow brothers and sisters in Christ bothered by the letter but he did not regret sending it (2 Corinth 7:8). Instead he found joy in the letter he sent because momentary pain they felt lead them to repent and turn back to the Lord (2 Corinthians 7:9). Paul was joyful because when the Corinthians saw their sins they did not rebel against God and continue to sin. No instead they were sorrowful for their actions but inspired to turn back to the Lord and do God's Will (2 Corinthians 7:10-11).

This makes me think about the church today. When you your sin becomes visible or known to you, what do you do? If someone were to call you out for your sins how would respond now? Would repent and seek to do the Lord's Will or would you brush it off and continue to live your life the way you want? To be honest sometimes I have become prideful and rejected someone when they have held me accountable. And have even sought out the bible and people to agree with me so I can feel justified. But that was not a godly response.

We should always consider our ways when the Word of God becomes clear to us and we are being held accountable for our actions. Something in us should respond to the hearing of God's Word. His Word and accountability should never become just background noise to us. They should abide in the forefront of our lives and they should cause to change and live for Christ. Much like it did in the Church of Corinth.

So I implore you to read God's Word and be inspired to turn back to the Lord. I urge you find good Christian friends who do not seek to agree with you but are willing to challenge you to live a Godly lifestyle. Stay focused you can do this!

In His JOY!