As Paul finishes up this letter to the Corinthian church, he warns them that if he has to be stern with them when he arrives he will, but that his desire is to build them up, not tear them down (v 2, 10).
He also gives them a simple instruction that is useful for all of us: "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves." (v 5). Not that we should live a live of constant introspection, sitting on a mountain top somewhere, staring at our navel, but the call here is to live a life that is not simply lived at random, hoping for the best, but rather to live a life worthy of Christ. And since such a life doesn't happen by accident - it takes God's grace and work in our lives, combined with our effort and obedience. Paul says in Philippians 2:12 to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling" and Peter says in 2 Peter 1:5 to "make every effort" in growing in spiritual character. So what we also must do is make realistic assessments of where we are in Christ so that we can see where we fall short and where we need to grow. Then with God's grace, direction and help, we can grow and be changed into his image.
As Paul finishes off the letter he says to them and to us, "Aim for perfection, listen to my appeal, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peach will be with you."
Amen! Lord Jesus please shape us and help us to follow you daily! We thank you for your grace and mercy in our lives. Please help us to follow you with all of our strength, soul, strength and mind!
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