Thursday, May 18, 2006

Neatly tucked away in the folds of 2 Corinthians 7:4 are two benefits we can anticipate when we have the proper reverence for God and respect for others.
First: When our relationships are right, there is comfort. Paul says, "I am filled with comfort." When relationships ember away to ashes, a shivering discomfort takes place. But when relationships are in full blaze, its like curling up with a quilt in an easy chair in front of the fire place.
Second: When we have respect for others, there is joy even when things go wrong. Paul says, "I am overflowing with joy in all our affliction." Contrary to popular perception, pain--not pleasure is our greatest friend. Because pain is instructive. It clears away the veil that obscures reality.

Think about that for a moment. Remember your good times. Then remember your hard times. Which ones proved to be the better teacher? Which one taught you more? Which ones matured you? Which ones brought you closer to God?

The hard times. The crosses you've had to bear. The nails. The thorns. The dying to self. Our vertical and horizontal relationships intersect at the cross. Because its only through the cross that we come to terms with reverence for God and respect for others.

1 Comments:

At 2:25 PM, Blogger WJ Flywheel said...

Thanks Tracy, Its very rarely that i get a coment and really do appreciate them.

 

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