04.21.21 | Loving Correction
In today’s BREAD reading from 2 Corinthians, Paul reflects on emotional situations that are causing disunity, negativity, and criticism, which could have allowed Satan’s strategies to overtake this maturing church in Corinth.
Paul acknowledges that when a community comes around an “offender” with a message of correction, it brings grief. However, the fruit of loving correction brings repentance, forgiveness, and comfort to all involved. When done in community, this practice “outwits” the devil’s schemes, as he loves to take advantage of disunity and unforgiveness (verses 5-11).
Paul describes the grace and victory of Christ as a banner over believers. He refers to this victory as an aroma, a fragrant perfume bringing life to those who repent and are saved (verses 14-16).
During today’s fasting and prayer focus, begin with a time of silence, opening yourself up to the Lord’s presence with you. Then, ask the Lord to reveal any instances of offense in your own life, both committed by you or to you. Consider if these offenses have caused disunity or unforgiveness.
Ask the Lord to show you if the enemy has taken a foothold in your heart. Pray that you would instead be filled with the Holy Spirit, and freed from the things that have held you captive. If you have offended a brother or sister, go to them in repentance and ask for their forgiveness.
To end, reflect on what Jesus’ great victory has done, and is doing, in your life. And thank the Lord for the freedom that comes from knowing Him.
As always, we encourage you to share what you are learning with your community. The beauty of repentance and the joy of victory are both worthy of being shared with others. As you vulnerably share both the difficulties and the victories in your life, the relationships with those who walk alongside you will be strengthened.