What a way to end this letter! Paul is telling them that he will make his third trip (there are places that I haven't even step foot in, nevertheless three times). He was mindful to tell them of the potential pitfalls the last time he visited them. Repeat offenders and new ones will not be spared his wrath given their demands of proof that he is "in Christ". As SCC says, strength is in His power and by His weakness, but that all is for the purpose of serving.
His charge is for us to test ourselves if we are in the faith. Wow! What test is that? I suspect that part of it is our adoption of a new mindset as set forth in Phil. 4:8. Do we see, hear, taste and touch others with the mind of Christ? Are we Thomases or are we Daniels ready to act because we have confidence in Christ? Do we build up or tear down? Do we actually pray or say that we will because it sounds nice? Do we trust that our prayers are heard and answered or is it conscious clearing? Are we holy and righteous? Do we follow Micah 6:8? Unlike a blood test or an exam that GG is taking, this test is ongoing like a refiner and his end game - pure gold.
Paul tells us to aim for perfection. Why not? Isn't that our goal to be sanctified? He also prays for harmony - understandable given their situation.
Prayer for today - for those who have died, injured and have suffered in this terrible disaster. for my peeps and family and for GG who is undergoing the career tests of a lifetime.
Praise for today - that God is good!
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