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God places the lonely in families.
God places the lonely in families.
Daily Devotional with Dr. Duane Brooks
August 8, 2016
2 Corinthians 7:5-7
For when we came into Macedonia, we had no rest, but we were harassed at every turn—conflicts on the outside, fears within. But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus, and not only by his coming but also by the comfort you had given him. He told us about your longing for me, your deep sorrow, your ardent concern for me, so that my joy was greater than ever.
”New International Version (NIV)
               It takes a church to grow a disciple.  I know Jesus saves each of us alone, but he does not save us to be alone.  God places the lonely in families.  And almost everyone we know is lonely.  God’s family is the church. 
                When Paul wrote a tough letter to the Corinthians, he was conflicted and afraid.  Had he been too harsh?  The silence was deafening.  He waited in Macedonia for word.  Titus was the messenger whose good news made his feet beautiful (Romans 10:15).  He brought word of repentance and restoration of relationship.
                We sometimes oversimplify relationship with God.  “God wants me to be happy.  And I’m happy when I do what I want to do.  So God wants me to do what I want to do.”  Paul corrected the misbehavior of one in Corinth and challenged the church to join him.    Looking back at the whole experience he wrote, “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret.”
                One of my mentors once said to me, “Leave room for the possibility that you are wrong about that.”  His correction was made in love and it helped me to grow.  Bless the ones who love you enough to hold you accountable.  It takes a church to grow up in the Lord.  So now with God’s help, and the love of the Christian community, let’s become the people God always knew we could be.
Pray with me:  
Father, today we thank you for friends who help us to love you more.  We confess our anger at those who confront our wrong attitudes and actions.  Thank you for the gentle rebuke of friends.  Help us to learn and to love others in the same way.  We ask it in Jesus’ name.  Amen.
Scripture reading for today: 
2 Corinthians 7

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