Scripture –
2 Corinthians 7:10 – For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas world grief produces death.
Observation-
Paul is writing his second letter to the Corinthian Church explaining how difficult it was for him to write his first letter which caused them to grieve. Paul finds comfort from God in his afflictions and now is comforted to see that the grief of the Corinthian believers was godly in nature as reported by Titus. Being sad and convicted from sin produces a grief that leads to transformation, repentance and salvation. Grief from a worldly perspective only leads to death.
Application –
Verse 10 is the essence of gospel transformation when we are truly repentant of our sin and surrender it at the foot of the cross to be covered by the blood of Christ. I need to be convicted of any sin and surrender it over to God. Salvation through Jesus is our greatest need and brings joy no matter what we are facing without regret. When we repent it brings us closer to God and to help others. If anyone knows they are not right with God now is the time to repent in the name of Jesus. This is the time we were put here for to stand firm in the Word of God. We must act in love and truth to live, serve and point people to Jesus and glorify Him. Knowing what is right and not acting on it by following culture will lead to death. Loving the Lord and serving Him will bring life and to self, church and community.
Prayer –
Father,
Thank you for the truth in your word. Thank you for your love, grace and mercy in sending Jesus to to pay for my sin so I can repent be reconciled and have a relationship with you to know you and make you known. Let the Spirit guide me to live without regret loving others to glorify you!