S: 1 Corinthians 4:10-13 We are fools on Christ’s account, but you are wise in Christ; we are weak, but you are strong; you are held in honor, but we in disrepute. To this very hour we go hungry and thirsty, we are poorly clad and roughly treated, we wander about homeless and we toil, working with our own hands. When ridiculed, we bless; when persecuted, we endure; when slandered, we respond gently. We have become like the worlds rubbish, the scum of all, to this very moment.
O: Paul mentions these things to show a difference between the apostolic living and the Corinthian living. But not out of pity. The Corinthians believe they are above all others and have already reached glory. Paul reminds them here of the beatitudes Jesus taught us
Matthew 5:3-11
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land. Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and other every kind of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.
Like 6:20-23 echo these and include the woes in verses 24-26
But world to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation. But world to you who are filled now, for you will be hungry. World to you who laugh now, for you will grieve and weep. Whoa to you when all speak well of you, for their ancestors treated the false prophets in this way.
A: As apostles and disciples of Christ, we will face persecution of our belief. But we must persist, and continue with our journey. Those who try to cut us down will be admonished and judged by God.
Even in our own homes or families, we may face questions. But we should never belittle ourselves or our beliefs for the sake of others. Sadly, my husband doesn’t believe and has on occasion stated things in front of the children about his unbelief. But I continue to ensure God’s role in our lives to our children and keep Him first, so they may follow the right path. I pray for my husband daily, that his heart may be opened to God. I don’t know how he doesn’t see all the good things we have as blessings from God; only the burdens as “proof” of his unbelief.
K: Lord, almighty God, thank you for all the blessings you have given us. Thank you for all the hills we have climbed, because without them we couldn’t truly appreciate your mercy and grace. I pray for those who think they are better without you, that their hearts may be turned to you so they know what goodness really is.
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