As Paul wraps up this first letter to God's church in Corinth, he addresses, what we would call, some housekeeping items. He is making preparations for future visits by himself as well as Timothy, designating how some "foreign missions" monies should be handled, and attending to some general issues in the fellowship. It is so interesting to see how God worked through this man to help organize and instruct the early churches.
In the midst of this planning, Paul gives a praise report, "For a great door and effectual is opened unto me" and also prompts the readers to be praying for that effort, "and there are many adversaries".
He also goes on to encourage the brethren when he says in verses 13 and 14, "Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. Let all your things be done with charity." I like how the NLT puts it: "Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love."
This seems to speak directly to REAL men. In all of our busy-ness, our legitimate church business, our tending to the things of God, and even the practical things of life, we must "Stand firm in the faith" and above all, "do everything with love".
As we go about our business today, whatever we may encounter, let us stand firm in the faith and show forth Christ's love to our brothers and to those that we come in contact with in the world around us.
Brad Hoff
Monday
1 Corinthians 16
