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Daily Devotions

2 Corinthians

2 Corinthians 
Day 
Day 47

"We do not lose heart."

Text: 2 Corinthians 4:1

IS IT POSSIBLE TO HAVE A POSITIVE OUTLOOK ALL THE TIME?

How wonderful it would be if we do not fall into a state of despair so easily. Is it really possible to be positive in one’s outlook all the time? The Apostle Paul shares his thoughts in this text.

“Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we
have received mercy, we do not lose heart.”
2 Corinthians 4:1

1. If anyone had reasons to despair, Paul would be that man!

Let’s recall what Paul had written earlier in this epistle.

a) He wrote about how he had been burdened beyond measure (2 Corinthians 1:8).

b) He described a situation that seemed like “a sentence of death” (2 Corinthians 1:9).

c) He wrote about his “affliction and anguish of heart” (2 Corinthians 2:4).

Yet he could write with such confidence and boldness these words.

2. “Therefore, since we have this ministry”

a) This was the “new covenant ministry” (2 Corinthians 3:6, 8).
b) In this ministry the following features may be noted:
i) It was life-giving.
ii) It was full of hope.
iii) It was about life being transformed by the Spirit of God (2 Corinthians 3:17-18).
c) This was a ministry that all believers may have a part in.
i) It was not confined to the Apostles.
ii) All believers may share in this ministry.

3. “As we have received mercy”

a) God’s mercy is available to all who seek Divine grace and help.
b) The ministry of the Holy Spirit enables us to find this mercy for life and ministry.
c) There is mercy enough to meet all life’s many challenges.
d) When we come to the great throne of grace we will obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need (Hebrews 4:16).

4. “We do not lose heart”

a) With a vibrant faith in God there is no need to lose heart.
b) With deep understanding of how the Spirit of God can help us, we draw fresh strength.
c) Paul was a great example of one who never lost heart!
d) He declares that he was able to have this positive attitude towards life because of God’s mercy.