Calendar

RESPONSE TO HARDSHIPS
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8
2 Corinthians 6:3-10
Titus 2:12
 
“But in all things …
in much patience …”
 
RESPONSE TO HARDSHIPS
 
Despite the various difficulties in the ministry, Paul did not compromise in his testimony for Christ. 2 Corinthians 6:6-7 thus describes how Paul handled the situations in a godly manner:
 
• “By pureness” – This describes the absence of any maliciousness or blame in Paul’s thoughts, motives, words and actions.
 
• “By knowledge” – Not just theoretical knowledge but experiential knowledge. Paul was a committed student of the Scriptures and sought whole-heartedly to know God and His Word.
 
• “By longsuffering” – This refers to patience with difficult people.
 
• “By kindness” – This refers to goodness in action. Paul did not return evil with evil, but evil with good.
 
• “By the Holy Ghost” – When we walk in the Spirit, He will help us to produce fruit which glorifies God despite the opposition of the world.
 
• “By love unfeigned” – This talks about love that is genuine and sincere. Thus, there is no pretence or ulterior motive in helping others.
 
• “By the word of truth” – The Holy Scriptures is our sole authority of faith and practice. It is the Bible that we must preach and follow.
 
• “By the power of God” – Paul served not according to the arm of flesh but simply by relying on God.
 
• “By the armour of righteousness” – This describes how Paul put on the whole armour of God to guard himself in the spiritual warfare. Our weapons are spiritual and not carnal (2 Cor 10:4-5).
 
THOUGHT: Godly living in a fallen world.
PRAYER: Father, teach me patience in the midst of difficulties.

Search