Thurs., 3/5/15 Devotion (2 Cor. 4:1)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Corinthians 4:1, where we read these words:

"Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we do not lose heart."

It is easy to "lose heart" in this fallen world. The better or more noble the cause, the greater the opposition and discouragement of it. Paul knew two things (from above): that he had been called to his apostleship (by God); and that he had received mercy (from God).

These two truths alone were sufficient to prevent the Apostle from "losing heart." If we are faithful believing Christian churchman today, then we also have a ministry, and we have received mercy. In light of this wonderful fact, let us serve Christ with humility and boldness today.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Every man is as his God is. If you would know whether a man is a godly man or not, you must inquire what his god is like.” —Jonathan Edwards, in his sermon entitled, "A truly Godly man prefers God before all others"]