READING: Isaiah 56-59, Psalm 70, 1 Corinthians 16
Have you ever been in a situation where the arrival of friends renewed your heart? Sometimes we just miss folks we love, and we rejoice when we get to see them again. The faces, voices, smiles, and hugs of trusted friends can help us push through the most difficult times.
In today’s New Testament reading, the apostle Paul longed to hear from the believers in Corinth. He loved them, and he apparently wanted to see them. Of course, travel was difficult in the ancient world—and few traveled far. In this case, though, believers named Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus came from Corinth to visit Paul in Ephesus. All the Corinthians could not travel to Ephesus to see Paul, but the apostle was content with having these three Christ-followers with him. Their coming, in fact, refreshed Paul’s spirit.
I want to be the kind of man whose coming brings joy. I’m not sure, however, I can determine whether I am that kind of man apart from asking other believers about their perception of me. I need others to help me determine whether I bring refreshing.
I pray I do.
PRAYER: “God, use me to refresh someone’s spirit today.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Isaiah 60-63, 2 Corinthians 1