Wednesday, April 24, 2024
Daily Scripture & Questions
II Corinthians 1-3 After a painful visit and then a tearful letter (see 2:1-4; 7:8-16; 11:4) dealing with the rebellion stirred up by Paul's enemies from the east, the apostle has now heard from Titus that the majority of the Corinthians did repent. Yet, a minority remained who seemed to think that Paul suffered too much to really be a blessed and spirit-filled apostle. Second Corinthians addresses this as a central theme. From chapter one, how is Paul able to comfort others? How important are our prayers for others (1:11)? It is suggested in 1:12-2:4 that the opponents were accusing Paul of a bait and switch, that is, not keeping his word. Why really did Paul change his plans? As ministers of the new covenant, what fragrance do we carry? How does the glory of the new covenant compare with that of the old?
Family Devotions—Scripture & Questions
Read II Corinthians 2:14-17. What fragrance did Paul carry with him? Was the aroma always a good one? Did Paul change the smell in order to get people to buy into the word of God that he was teaching? Is your life and message consistent or do you change depending on who you are around?
Biblical Prayer Focus
Mark 11:24-25 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.
Ask the Lord if there is anyone you can't make eye contact with . . . anyone that you have something against. If He brings anyone to mind, seek what He would have you do. Offer forgiveness to that person in prayer but also be certain to try to offer it to them in person if at all possible.
II Corinthians 1-3 After a painful visit and then a tearful letter (see 2:1-4; 7:8-16; 11:4) dealing with the rebellion stirred up by Paul's enemies from the east, the apostle has now heard from Titus that the majority of the Corinthians did repent. Yet, a minority remained who seemed to think that Paul suffered too much to really be a blessed and spirit-filled apostle. Second Corinthians addresses this as a central theme. From chapter one, how is Paul able to comfort others? How important are our prayers for others (1:11)? It is suggested in 1:12-2:4 that the opponents were accusing Paul of a bait and switch, that is, not keeping his word. Why really did Paul change his plans? As ministers of the new covenant, what fragrance do we carry? How does the glory of the new covenant compare with that of the old?
Family Devotions—Scripture & Questions
Read II Corinthians 2:14-17. What fragrance did Paul carry with him? Was the aroma always a good one? Did Paul change the smell in order to get people to buy into the word of God that he was teaching? Is your life and message consistent or do you change depending on who you are around?
Biblical Prayer Focus
Mark 11:24-25 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.
Ask the Lord if there is anyone you can't make eye contact with . . . anyone that you have something against. If He brings anyone to mind, seek what He would have you do. Offer forgiveness to that person in prayer but also be certain to try to offer it to them in person if at all possible.
Posted in Daily Reading