Re:Verse reading–2 Corinthians 7:5-16 (day two)
For the sorrow that is according to the will of God produces a repentance without regret, leading to salvation, but the sorrow of the world produces death. vs. 10
Sometimes to get forward you must take a step backwards, or at least pause. Paul knows that his words wounded the Corinthian believers, but only so far as it exposed their sin which ultimately led to the joy of repentance and restoration. There are two very valuable lessons here. First, we must not be afraid to speak the truth in love. If our motivation is truly to help our brother or sister, we should speak the words they need to hear. Withholding words because they could hurt may ultimately do more damage. Secondly, we should not be afraid to take a step back ourselves. Sometimes we can be so focused on getting ahead we are unwilling to do anything that might “set us back.” This is prideful arrogance. We know better. Take stock, do a personal inventory, and get right. Sorrow can lead to real joy.
A step back or a reflection of the past is a wise strategy. The past can either provide us with the experience or the lesson. The past can hurt but we always can run from it or learn from it!
I could not agree more, “Sometimes to get forward you must take a step backwards, or at least pause.” How to get forward matters! With the positive experience or with the lessons learned? Both will give us a foundation to make the right decisions!