April 07, 2020: SOAP #3778:  1Samuel 1-2; Psalm 66; 2Corinthians 7

Scripture:  2Corinthians (NIV) 7:5 For when we came into Macedonia, this body of ours had no rest, but we were harassed at every turn—conflicts on the outside, fears within. 6 But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus, 7 and not only by his coming but also by the comfort you had given him. He told us about your longing for me, your deep sorrow, your ardent concern for me, so that my joy was greater than ever.

Observation:  In verse five we have a window into the soul of this great apostle Paul.  We read in other scriptures about the conflicts he had in his ministry, but here he also mentioned the “fears within.”  This great apostle had some inner issues like the rest of us.

How did God minister to his servant?  He did not condemn him for walking in fear.  He did not chastise him for his lack of faith.  He sent comfort through Titus who also carried comfort in his reports about the believers back in Corinth.  Note that the comfort came from God!

Application:   I must be aware that Christian leaders today, as the Apostle Paul in his day, need encouraging and comfort.  Especially in this day when the corona virus like a cloud is encircling the earth.  Increase in ministry needs, lack of supplies, and quarantine limits add challenges to Christian leaders.  God can use me to pray for them and encourage them.  I can pass along an encouraging greeting from others.  Through a letter, an email, a phone call, or even a personal visit God can use me to bring joy to their hearts.

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, as you used your servant Titus to minister to your servant Paul, use me to impart your comfort, strength, and encouragement to the Christian leaders with whom I have contact. Holy Spirit, touch through me, I pray. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!