For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation. There’s no regret for that kind of sorrow. But worldly sorrow, which lacks repentance, results in spiritual death. 2 Corinthians 7:10 NLT
Have you ever had a friend tell you something about yourself that was hard to accept and hurtful? They gave us this great gift not from spitefulness but from their love for us. It would be much easier for them not to say anything, but they are willing to test our friendship because they care deeply for us. Of course, if their spirit of helpfulness turns to daily reminders of our faults, that's another thing–it may be time to reconsider the friendship.
In today's text, Paul writes unapologetically of an earlier letter sent to the Corinth church in which he chastised them for some of their actions. For though he knew the truths of their sin would be painful to hear, any pain they experienced was done from his love and for their spiritual life.
In another epistle, to another church in Hebrews 12:5-6, Paul cites Proverbs 3:11-12.
My child, don’t reject the Lord’s discipline, and don’t be upset when he corrects you. For the Lord corrects those he loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights.
Though they may cause temporary sorrow, those corrections are for our benefit. God chastises us because he loves us and sometimes uses our friends to relay that message. When we take this message in the spirit in which they are given and amend our sinfulness, sorrow leads to joy.
Now, am I endorsing that we all look for the sinfulness of our friends and point it out to them? Of course not; we would be better off looking at our sinfulness. However, whenever we hear or see a friend doing something that harms their soul, we should address it, guided by the love of the Holy Spirit.
Father God, thank you for friends that tell us those things that are hard to hear. By the Holy Spirit, open our ears and hearts to receive what they say in love. In the hearing, may we repent of our actions, asking forgiveness from you and any we may have hurt. Help us turn that moment's sorrow into a joyful time of obedience and healing. We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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