SUMMARY: Reconcile
OVERVIEW: Paul describes the sacrifice he has endured to minister to the Corinthians, desiring they be reconciled to God and them. He concludes by urging them to follow Christ and not be deceived by others.
BIG IDEA: A life of sacrifice is a powerful witness.
KEY VERSE: 2 Corinthians 6:9-10 (Paul to the Corinthians)
We are ignored, even though we are well known. We live close to death, but we are still alive. We have been beaten, but we have not been killed. Our hearts ache, but we always have joy. We are poor, but we give spiritual riches to others. We own nothing, and yet we have everything.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
Let nothing prevent you from loving and serving those around you. Ignore the unkind words, disregard the evil glares, and work around the obstacles placed in your way. There will be kind words and smiles and pats on the back from time to time, but don’t live for them, for they may be few and far between. Instead, live for me and let my Spirit fill you and fuel you. Pray for the very ones who discourage you, that someday they will work beside you, and you can joke about how they used to treat you.
Others are watching, so be wise in the choices you make and the friends you keep. You are a child of the light, so be light in dark places. Do not cover your light to fit in or seek approval. I am all you need. Rest in me and invest in others. But don’t be deceived by others who try to distract you or make promises they cannot keep. I am your heavenly father, and I love you, and am with you forever.
NEXT STEP
Show appreciation to those who have led you, and set an example for others of what it looks like to follow Jesus faithfully.
MUSIC VIDEO
BONUS Faith Story