1 Corinthians 1:4–8 (ESV) — 4 I give thanks to my God always for you because of
the grace of God that was given you in Christ Jesus, 5 that in every way you were enriched in him in all speech and all
knowledge— 6 even as the testimony about Christ was confirmed
among you— 7 so that you are not lacking in any gift, as you wait
for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ, 8 who will
sustain you to the end, guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.
NOTE: For a church
that is about to be raked over the coals, Paul is exceedingly gracious in his
words and prayer. They are enriched (in every way) in speech and knowledge.
They don't lack any gift. They are guiltless because of their faith in Jesus.
And yet, this is a church with a lot of worldly problems. They are certainly
not to be emulated in their actions or lifestyle. There is jealousy, sexual
sin, abuse of the spiritual gifts, to name a few. I think every church has
those problems and unfortunately it is almost expected. I'm not suggesting that
it is okay, but I am saying that it is normal. We live in a fallen world. We
have sin-marred bodies. The world is not as God intended. I think we need to
get off of our high and holy horse now and then, and recognized that God still
loves this mess we call the church. We can do better. Paul's letter (one of
three to this church) suggests as much. But Paul is thankful for them. We can
learn to be more thankful.
PRAYER: Father,
forgive me for my critical spirit. I have been very critical of the church over
the years. I treat your bride as a hindrance and a pain at times. I want to see
transformation and growth and I am frustrated when I don't see it. Yet, I can do
better. Give me a thankful heart. Help me to see what you see that is good.
Forgive me for my sin.
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