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Daily Devotions

2 Corinthians

2 Corinthians 
Day 
Day 21

"I determined this within myself..."

Text: 2 Corinthians 2:1

A DEEP PERSONAL STRUGGLE

Paul shared deep personal thoughts about how he struggled with reference to life and ministry. This insight is invaluable for we catch a glimpse of how Paul understood his ministry.

“But I determined this within myself,
that I would not come again to you in sorrow.
For if I make you sorrowful, then who is he who
makes me glad but the one who is made sorrowful by me.”
2 Corinthians 2:1-2

1. A misconception

a) Many assume that Paul did not struggle with personal thoughts and feelings.
b) It is assumed that Paul did the will of God (and that personal feelings did not matter).

2. “I determined this within myself”

a) This statement gives us a glimpse of how Paul thought and felt.
b) It was not just a matter of “God’s will”.
c) God allowed Paul to decide on things.
d) Paul came to a conclusion and this was shared here.

3. “That I would not come again to you in sorrow”

a) Both purpose and goal are in mind here.
b) Paul would not come to Corinth if this would lead to sorrow.

4. “For if I make you sorrowful”

a) Paul knew that his visit could bring sorrow to many.
b) A possible scenario
i) There would be a clash between Paul and his detractors.
ii) There would be great sorrow felt by all.
iii) The church could be further hurt and that would bring sorrow.

5. “Who is he who makes me glad”

a) It is not wrong to desire gladness.
b) Who would prefer sorrow to gladness?

6. “The one who is made sorrowful by me”

a) The one whom Paul made sorrowful. (No name was mentioned so we are not able to determine the full circumstances.)
b) Obviously, Paul was conscious of how personal relationships can affect life and ministry. He desired gladness and harmony in the church.