2 Corinthians 7:10 "For God can use sorrow in our lives to help us turn away from sin and seek salvation. We will never regret that kind of sorrow. But sorrow without repentance is the kind that results in death."
Paul had sent an earlier letter to the Christians in Corinth...possibly first Corinthians or another letter that we no longer have, that caused them some sorrow. Apparently, the Corinthians were caught up in some poor behavior and Paul corrects them. We usually don't like to be corrected! At first he wasn't sure he should send the letter, but eventually realizes it was for their own good. However uncomfortable it may have made them feel, the result was worth it. He concludes that sorrow and sadness can be great tools to lead us towards repentance.
Sometimes it's good to feel a little pressure. Sometimes it's good to be bothered and troubled. There's no greater teacher than a little adversity or pain right? When we are bothered and troubled by our behavior we make the appropriate changes. We correct the behavior. If I notice the scale jumped up 10 pounds since Christmas, I cut back on the sweets! If I receive a collection call on the phone, I cut up the credit card! If however, I ignore the pain and continue the behavior...well that Paul says leads to death. And isn't that true? God does not want us on a road that leads to death. He wants us on a road that leads to him. Today I need to pay attention to the sorrow and discomfort in my life. What is it trying to tell me? What is God trying to tell me today?
Dear Jesus, help me learn from the pain in my life, and seek repentance and seek you. Amen.
