Daily Devotions: July 31, 2014

Today’s Bible reading is 2 Corinthians chapter 2

(Read the entire New Testament in 2014 by reading only one chapter each day)

“Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.” (2 Corinthians 2:11)
In Paul’s first letter to the Corinthian church he challenged them to correct an erring member. In his second letter he admonished the Corinthians to forgive and restore their brother. Paul said, “You ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow. Wherefore I beseech you that you would confirm your love toward him.” (2 Corinthians 2:7-8)
Forgiveness is a gift from God that restores our fellowship. The Corinthian church confronted the sin of one of its members. Their actions led the sinning brother to realize his sin and repent. For the church to heal, there needed to be an act of forgiveness on their behalf. Satan loves to see God’s church torn apart. He gains an advantage over us when we are divided. Unforgiveness keeps God’s people separated and hinders fellowship. God tells us to love one another, and that love covers a multitude of sins. Paul said, “For we are unto God a sweet savor of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish.” (2 Corinthians 2:15) It is a sweet savor when God’s people love one another.
We should be a sweet and pleasant odor to one another and to God. Don’t allow the bitter and unpleasant smell of unforgiveness to ruin your life. Let your life be a delightful fragrance to everyone you meet.

Prayer: “Heavenly Father, make us a sweet fragrance for Your glory. In Jesus name. Amen.”

Randy J. McPheron