2 Corinthians 1 (#2): Boasting in Suffering

Verse 12: Now this is our boast: Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in our relations with you, with integrity and godly sincerity. We have done so, relying not on worldly wisdom but on God's grace.

◇ Being misunderstood is truly difficult and unfair. This week, as we meditated on Psalm 17, our hearts were heavy seeing David's struggles. It seems that Paul, too, had many grievances just like David, who had to flee from misunderstandings caused by Saul's jealousy and envy.

Paul acted with godly holiness and truthfulness. And he did not fill his selfish desires with worldly wisdom, human wisdom. Rather, he did his utmost to make the Corinthian church members become Christians through the grace derived from God's love. Paul appeals that his conscience testifies to the truth of all his words and actions. Why does Paul have to appeal to his truthfulness, sincerity, and righteousness? It's because the believers misunderstood and doubted him.

We know all too well that truthfulness, sincerity, and righteousness are not always acknowledged and accepted. We face misunderstandings, jealousy, and envy. Therefore, there are times when our truthfulness, sincerity, and righteousness lead to suffering. We close our eyes and ears to avoid such suffering. We sneak a peek elsewhere because we want to avoid suffering.

However, David and Paul did not do that. Jesus did not do that either. They did not let go of truth, sincerity, and righteousness even in the face of suffering.

God was with David, Paul, and Jesus. God was with those who clearly spoke and demonstrated yes and no for themselves until the end. He is with us today as well.

♧ Lord, please strengthen our weakening hearts due to suffering! Help us not to forget that you are with us and seek us! Holy Spirit, lead us in truth!