2 Corinthians 7:10-13a

2 Corinthians 7:10-13a

For the grief according to God works to bring about repentance into salvation without regret.  And the grief of the world brings about death.  For behold!  How much has this same grief according to God worked an eagerness in you all to grieve – but in defense, but in a strong opposition to wrong, but in fear, but in longing, but in zeal, but in justice to the wronged!  In all things you made known through your actions to be innocent to this event.  Consequently I wrote to you all, not on account of the one who did wrong nor on account of the one who was being wronged, but in order that your eagerness for us should be revealed to you all in the presence of God.  Because of this we have been encouraged. 

Thoughts for Today

First Thought:

The opening truth in Paul’s sentence is profound and should not be missed.  In genuine godly correction, we bring about true repentance into salvation without regret.  I can’t tell you how many times I’ve done something wrong.  In each instance, I have genuinely regretted my action in spite of feeling like I wanted to do it at the time. But when I feel the true correction of God and learn to live under a new rhythm in life, the regret goes away.  I still regret having done the action, but I don’t regret being corrected.  Any correction that leads to a closer relationship with God is a good moment.

Why is it tough to be corrected?  Why does it take a certain amount of maturity to receive correction?

Second Thought:

In fact, Paul goes on to say that when we are corrected we actually become stronger!  When we are corrected, we are better able to defend ourselves.  When we are corrected, are better able to stand strong.  When we are corrected, we are better able to live zealously in fear of the Lord!  When we are corrected, we are able to pay more attention to bringing justice to the wronged.  There is much good that can happen when we are corrected by God and His people in a godly manner.

When have you been made stronger through correction?  How has that helped you?

Third Thought:

We are encouraged when we see other people correct their behavior.  When we see people who were living in the wrong and who turn around and instead pursue God even more diligently, we are encouraged at what God can do.  He is more powerful than our failings.

Why is it a testimony to God’s power when we as human beings show an ability to change?  How can that be inspiring to the Christians around us?

Passage for Tomorrow: 2 Corinthians 7:13b-16