The Christian life is always a mixture of joy with time of hardship. Paul writes of a time when “we were so utterly, unbearably crushed that we despaired of life itself. ” (2 Corinthians 1:8) It is in those times we need to trust God’s presence, and also be present for one another to share God’s strength.
Worship this week:
Saturday – 5:00 p.m. in the chapel
Sunday – 8:30 a.m. Worship through music led by the Senior Choir
9:30 a.m. last day of Sunday School
10:30 a.m. Contemporary Worship
Devotions for this week:
A note of Consolation, 2 Corinthians 1:1-11 May 22, 2016
SHARE: What was a high point of your day? What was a low point?
READ: Read the following daily readings to deepen your understanding
Sunday, 2 Corinthians 1:1-11, Consolation
Monday, 2 Corinthians 1:12-24, The Postponement of Paul’s Visit
Tuesday, Colossians 1:24 – 2:5, Paul’s Interest in the Colossians
Wednesday, Romans 8:12-17, Life in the Spirit
Thursday, 2 Timothy 2:1-13, A Good Soldier of Christ Jesus
Friday, Acts 19:21-41, A Riot Breaks Out in Ephesus
Saturday, Romans 15:22-33, Paul’s Plan to Visit Rome
TALK: Consider some of these ideas:
The opening of Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians is a powerful word of comfort from one who knows and understands the afflictions of his beloved community. Paul’s letter models remorse and repentance, but also a recognition that God can console us in any situation, and in God we are reconciled.
- What themes of Paul’s can you identify from these letters and acts of Paul?
- How does God console those who are suffering? Where do you see suffering that seems inconsolable?
- Tell a story of a time you needed to be consoled. Who helped you?
Do: Consider someone in your life that need consoling. Reach out to that person this week. Offer to bring a meal or share a conversation and coffee with them. When you visit, do more listening than talking. You don’t need to have all the answers; a listening ear can be incredibly healing.
Bless: May God console you in your pain and rejoice with you in your joy. Amen.
