Christian Tiews

Today we read 2 Corinthians 11. Paul gives sensitive personal information to prove that a genuine servant of Christ carries his Master’s cross and drinks His cup (meaning, suffering affliction as a Christian). We, too, must suffer with Christ now in order to reign with Him later. The Lord and His angels protect and accompany His servants even when they *seem* to have forsaken us. • Jesus, I trust in You as “I walk in danger all the way.” Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10084). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read 2 Corinthians 10. As Christ endured the darts of the evil one to rescue the undeserving from his clutches, so Paul and faithful ministers submit to affliction in order to reach the lost and build up the flock. • Lord, grant us to die to self and live to You, and to be instruments of Your mission, not obstacles in its way. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10079). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read 2 Corinthians 9. Paul urges the Corinthians to go with the flow of God’s self-giving in Christ by giving themselves to others, so that the downward and outward movement of grace comes full circle in an ascending symphony of thanksgiving. Seeing things in an earthly, me-first way is miserly and petty. Instead, we should open our hands to receive from God and extend them to give to our neighbor. We marvel that in Jesus it is always more and never less and rejoice that God’s gifts multiply as we receive and share them. • Lord, open and widen our narrow hearts to You, to Your children, and to all. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10074). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read 2 Corinthians 8. As Paul leads a great money-gathering effort, he takes care that clergy and laity work together to ensure that the Church’s financial dealings are untainted by scandal. In our churches, we should honor those who undertake such tasks. Thanks be to God for His gift of willing servants, who distribute the life-giving Gospel in all their service in Christ. • Lord, teach us to manage Your Church’s earthly resources for Your glory and the advancement of Your mission. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (pp. 10070-10071). (Function). Kindle Edition.