Re:Verse passage – 2 Corinthians 7:5-16 (day five)
There is a profound portrait of repentance in this week’s Re:Verse passage. Repentance is literally “turning away” and walking in the opposite direction. Repentance begins with conviction from the Holy Spirit. It is what Paul described as godly grief. The result is salvation- freedom and restoration. Our spirits and souls are lifted and encouraged. Attitudes and behaviors are dramatically different.
What did it look like for the Corinthians? Look in verses 7 and 11. Their disinterest to Paul’s presence was now longing. Their dismissal of his authority had shifted to passion. Their previous deception was now a righteous anger against Paul’s opponent. Those believers in Corinth demonstrate a clear and vibrant change of heart.
Let’s pray for the Holy Spirit to continue that heart changing work of repentance.
“godly regret is the first step of repentance. And repentance follows and completes the change of heart.” John Piper
The Corinthians realized that Paul truly loved God and truly loved and cared for them. They realized it was not for Paul’s benefits but for their own benefits and they changed. Paul succeeded in his mission with change management.
In life, we either walk God’s way or our own way. It is our choice. It will create ongoing conflicts if we walk both ways. God never forces us to choose His way. We are to decide if we want our way (earthy, temporary) or God’s way (eternity, permanent).
There are consequences when we walk alone without God!!