1 Corinthians 1:3-9 “for in every way you have been enriched in him, in speech and knowledge of every kind…so that you are not lacking in any spiritual gift as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ.” vss. 5, 7
Paul begins his letter to the church at Corinth with glowing words of affirmation. From his perspective, since they live under grace, they lack nothing–there is no need for them to worry about their salvation. We should not conclude from this that he believed everything was sweetness and light in their community. Indeed, we find from reading the rest of his letter, that he had plenty of admonitions for them. But Paul’s approach is instructive. He starts with the positive–he tells them how wonderful they are and how blessed he is to be associated with them. No matter who we are, we love affirmation, and so does everyone else! Of course we mess up, but our imperfections are not the measure of who we are! We are the much-loved children of God, and we have already been given all we need to enjoy the fruits of kingdom living. And the more we are reminded of that, the more likely it is that we will begin to reflect the image of God in our daily living. With some it becomes a mission and a passion–they never miss a chance to lift people with words of affirmation. And what a blessing such people are! Because of folks like them there is hope that this world can change!
Thought for the Day: Who needs my affirmation today?
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