Tag Archives: the book of 2 Corinthians

September 6
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“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4, NIV)

The comfort and compassion available to us for use when helping others is as powerful, as resilient, and as timely as what we’ve received from God when we ourselves have been troubled. 

In fact, what we receive today fills our reservoir for service to others tomorrow.  God does, indeed, reach-down to bring us up; but God also employs His willing children to come alongside to bring us along. When we are faithful to reach-out, to reach-over, or to reach-back for others, it is not only our own power that strengthens our grip; it is the power of God through us!

Never hesitate to go where God has ordered; or to serve where God has placed you. We are His hands and His arms to those in distress.  – Luther

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May 17
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“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7, NIV)

Each day, we have numerous opportunities to give.

In the context of today’s scripture, Paul is both commending and encouraging the disciples in Corinth (who were a pretty cosmopolitan lot in their day) to not only give of their treasure, but to give it liberally — and with a smile!

As you have opportunity to give today, remember that “God loves a cheerful giver.”  – Luther

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March 13
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“Therefore we also have as our ambition, whether at home or absent, to be pleasing to Him.” (2 Corinthians 5:9, NASB)

We frequently here the word “passion,” or its derivative, “passionate,” to describe the drive, energy, and the focus that someone brings to an activity. It is meant to be a compliment, but when we are driven for the wrong reasons; or focused on the wrong things, it is anything but complimentary. 

As disciples of Jesus, our passion is to be pleasing to God. All other interests are subordinate; and all other invitations for our time, talent, and treasure are subject to — and informed by — this singular, supreme, objective.

To “have as our ambition. . . to be pleasing to Him,” is to succeed at all else, because all else is affected by this one thing! – Luther

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