2 Corinthians 2:1 KJV
But I determined this with myself, that I would
not come again to you in heaviness.
How is it that a person can make the choice not to be heavy and
sorrowful in spirit?
Paul made that
choice
Many times a
sorrowful or heavy spirit can be reversed simply by choosing not to be heavy.
Listening to music, getting off of the couch. Doing something, anything that
requires energy and activity is often all it takes to overcome heaviness.
Paul dealt with the
issue head on
The heaviness in
this case would have been the result of anxiety over how his previous, harsh
letter had been received. Instead of stewing over it, he did something about
it. He enquired as to their state of attitude. Meeting up with that someone,
speaking to them, attempting to make things correct will more often than not
lift the spirits.
Paul expressed love
Whether this is an
outward expression as in Paul's case, or a spiritual/mental exercise whereby we
focus on reasons to love these believers, simply feeling love is a means of
lifting heavy hearts.
Paul emphasized
forgiveness
Bitterness of the
heart will destroy the person who holds it. No good thing can come from keeping
anger, hostility and bitterness bottled up. The way to release them is not by
"venting" but by forgiving. Forgiveness is the choosing to hold no
ill will against another-even if it is deserved. Forgiveness stems from two
realizations:
- That we too surely have needed to be forgiven of others
- That God has graciously forgiven us through the sacrifice of Jesus
Christ
Paul planned a
visit to Corinth. He had determined that he would arrive with a free and light
heart. May we choose to be light hearted believers.
No comments:
Post a Comment