Faith in Action
The Early Church Proclaims Faith in Christ
Faith to Persevere
2 Corinthians 1:3-7 The Message
The Rescue
3-5 All praise to the God and Father of our Master, Jesus the Messiah! Father of all mercy! God of all healing counsel! He comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, he brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us. We have plenty of hard times that come from following the Messiah, but no more so than the good times of his healing comfort—we get a full measure of that, too.6-7 When we suffer for Jesus, it works out for your healing and salvation. If we are treated well, given a helping hand and encouraging word, that also works to your benefit, spurring you on, face forward, unflinching. Your hard times are also our hard times. When we see that you’re just as willing to endure the hard times as to enjoy the good times, we know you’re going to make it, no doubt about it.
For Reflection
In what ways have you experienced the God of all Comfort? In my life divine comfort has arrived unexpectedly and without my asking. Have I suffered? Yes. But, not as much as others have. Have I endured hard times? I'm not sure I ever considered the alternative! But some (including imprisoned Paul) have.
Have I suffered for Jesus? Yes, I think so. But not because those in whose hands I was suffering persecuted me because I was Christian. They disagreed with my action, not with my faith. They probably didn't give a thought to my Christian motives or even perhaps define my action as Christ-like. To tell you the truth, I likely didn't see my motives as Christian either. I was just doing what I thought was right, just and kind.
There are plenty of Christians in this world that are intentionally persecuted. There are many more believers who suffer because they act in ways that are perceived by others to violate societal norms.
Have I suffered for Jesus? Yes, I think so. But not because those in whose hands I was suffering persecuted me because I was Christian. They disagreed with my action, not with my faith. They probably didn't give a thought to my Christian motives or even perhaps define my action as Christ-like. To tell you the truth, I likely didn't see my motives as Christian either. I was just doing what I thought was right, just and kind.
There are plenty of Christians in this world that are intentionally persecuted. There are many more believers who suffer because they act in ways that are perceived by others to violate societal norms.
Pray
Pray for those whose unconventional approach to life supports justice, kindness and spiritual growth in others. Pray for those who suffer for Christ.Forward to a friend
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