Encourage A Friend

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Scripture:

2Cor. 7:5   For even when we came into Macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were afflicted in every way—disputes without and fears within. 6 But God, who consoles the downcast, consoled us by the arrival of Titus, 7 and not only by his coming, but also by the consolation with which he was consoled about you, as he told us of your longing, your mourning, your zeal for me, so that I rejoiced still more.

Observation:

Paul had sent a rather stinging letter to the church in Corinth and was feeling badly about it. At the same time he was traveling in Macedonia and feeling a lot of tension. There were those among the believers who were struggling as well as persecutions from those who were not believers. It’s at this moment that Titus appears and brings relief to a difficult time. 

Titus’ arrival ushers in change for both Paul and Titus. Their friendship is revealed and cemented in what follows. Titus had been greatly encouraged by the response of the church in Corinth and so he was coming with an encouraged heart. Paul was so glad that Titus was feeling better about the ministry and this, in turn made Paul feel better. He was happy about Titus, and also about what was happening in Corinth. It warmed Paul’s heart to hear that the Corinthians still loved and appreciated him. Paul’s relationship with Titus had moved up to a new level as Paul publicly acknowledged what a blessing Titus had been to him. 

Thanks Nancy and Wanda for driving hours just to be an encouragement! 


Application:

One of the greatest blessings in life is to have someone come to your defense. It’s no fun to end up taking the heat for something and end up hanging out there all by yourself. It’s so easy to be critical, especially on social media. Engaging in personal and character assassination seems far too easy when we are disconnected from one another emotionally. Knowing that our words might just break someone’s heart could make a world a difference. 

Paul went out of his way to acknowledge Titus’ action in writing. What an encouragement this must have been to him. When’s the last time we affirmed one of our friends and what they mean to us? Life is hard enough that we don’t need to be looking for ways to be critical of one another. Always try to look for the best in another person and when you have the opportunity, brag on them publicly. It’s time to build-up the family!

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for the friends you have placed in my life. May we partner together in serve to you. Amen. 

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