April 7, 2012 (1 Samuel 1-2; Psalm 66; 2 Corinthians 7)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation. There’s no regret for that kind of sorrow. But worldly sorrow, which lacks repentance, results in spiritual death.” 2 Corinthians 7:10 NLT
Observation: Sometimes the truth hurts, but it must be proclaimed anyway. Paul sent a letter of rebuke to the Corinthians that made even him feel bad. He said, “I am not sorry that I sent that severe letter to you, though I was sorry at first, for I know it was painful to you for a little while. Now I am glad I sent it, not because it hurt you, but because the pain caused you to repent and change your ways.” The purpose of all preaching is to bring people to repentance and therefore restore their relationship to God through Christ. Repentance is not an option, that can be chosen or not, it is a requirement. Seldom does one come to repentance without first being presented with a stern truthful message of the gospel.
Application: There’s a big difference between Godly sorrow and worldly sorrow. Unfortunately the majority of people in church today don’t know the difference. I’m really beginning to wonder if most preachers know the difference. A letter like the one Paul sent to the Corinthians would be thrown in the trash without a second thought by the church of today. That’s how arrogant and bold we have become. That’s how little fear, and respect, we have for God’s holiness. But the church needs bold men and women, that will stand up for God’s holiness and His righteousness. People that are willing to stand up and suffer the taunts of ridicule from the religious pansies that have taken over the pulpits. People that are willing to destroy the idols that have been raised by the church and return to the paths of righteousness through repentance. Though repentance may bring pain for a season, it yields a harvest of holiness and favor from God above.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for this day, bless it and make it prosperous! Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me daily. Thank You for sorrow that brings forth repentance and causes me to change my ways. I have no regret for any of this type sorrow. You are my God and I am Your child. Teach me Your ways and write Your word upon my heart. May You bring to my remembrance Your word on a continual basis, in Jesus name, Amen!