Final Words

Paul brings 1 Corinthians to a close with final greetings to the church of Corinth, giving words of encouragement and details on his future plans in ministry.

He goes on to describe that he is heading for Macedonia, but hopes to return for a visit. Verse 7 really stood out to me as it states,

⁷ For I do not want to see you now just in passing. I hope to spend some time with you, if the Lord permits. - 1 Corinthians 16:7

Thinking back to Urbana, I remember learning that a call is not felt, it is heard. A call is not necessary to go on missions, but it is necessary to stay. And here, it shows just that, "if the Lord permits". I also think we can learn about missions, evangelism and accountability from this verse too. When we share, or bring others to Christ, you don't just dump them and move on, you have to build the relationship, follow up on them and see how they are doing, "spend some time with [them]".

¹³ Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. ¹⁴ Do everything in love. - 1 Corinthians 16:13-14

Paul gives the church five final words of encouragement that I think is applicable at all times to all people.

"be on your guard"
I think this can be relevant to sin, or to Christ's second coming. Always be watchful for Satan's attacks, temptations, but at the same time, the blessings, opportunities, signs and callings God has for us. He has a lot in store for us, but we have to notice and seize it to really see it in our lives.

"stand firm in the faith"
Life with Christ was never promised to be easy, but we have to learn to be faithful to our God. How firm will you stand? Life will send its thunderstorms and blizzards, but will you stand through it all? Hold onto God as your rock and pillar of foundation, he will carry you through all trials.

"be courageous"
If you pray for challenges, God will grant them. Do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone for God. As dedicated followers of Christ, we will be put in odd situations, but will you be brave and trust God no matter what the situation is?

"be strong"
We all have weaknesses, we will fail and stumble, but will you get us and fight back? Will you trudge through life's difficulties? Be strong in the Lord. He is your strength and your source of power. Through Him, all things are possible.

"do everything in love"
God is love. Do everything in love. Its as simple as that.

verse of the day: 1 Corinthians 16:13-14

¹³ Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. ¹⁴ Do everything in love.