“But as God is faithful, our word to you is not yes and no. For the Son of God, Christ Jesus, who was preached among you by us– by me and Silvanus and Timothy– was not yes and no, but is yes in Him. For as many as are the promises of God, in Him they are yes; therefore also through Him is our Amen to the glory of God through us. Not that we lord it over your faith, but are workers with you for your joy; for in your faith you are standing firm.” 2 Corinthians 1:18-20 & 24 (NAU)
How easy it is to be fickle. With hormones and personal preferences being what they are, mood swings and attitudes can dance all over the scale. Given the influence of the media and post-modern TV shows, how easy it is to speak without thinking and voice our opinions without considering the impact on others.
Paul’s personal example? He refused to be fickle or place personal demands on others (v.17). Instead, he was faithful and consistent in his preaching (vss. 18-19). His example was based on the Lord’s example of consistent grace (v.20).
Paul refused to establish the Corinthian believers on his personality or personal whim. He insisted they be established on the solid, consistent promises of God, which were always available, never refused to believers, and are complete in God (v.20). Unlike many modern pastors, Paul refused to demand control over the Corinthians’ faith, choosing rather to be en encourager of joy because they stood or fell by faith or the lack thereof (v.24).
Dear Father, thank you for your consistent grace and mercy. Grant to us the determination to persevere in faith to the end. Forgive us our fickle, personal whims. Empower us to be encouragers of joy. This I pray in Jesus’ name. AMEN
Let us praise God for his consistent faithfulness and live to his glory,