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2 Corinthians 8:22-24
In 2 Corinthians 8:22-24 the Apostle Paul reassures the congregation of the church at Corinth of the confidence he has in those who will be sent to gather the gift from the church at Corinth to take to the Church at Jerusalem to be distributed to those in need. But he also shows his confidence in the congregation of the church at Corinth in being a proper example of giving. Paul describes his fellow workers as, “messengers of the churches, the glory of Christ” (2 Corinthians 8:24, NKJV).
This is an example of a church that has grown in their relationship and understanding of the gospel message and has become an example for others to follow.
The Bible teaches us in 2 Timothy 2:15, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” The Apostle Paul uses the word “diligent” twice in 2 Corinthians 8:22 and in 2 Timothy 2:15 to instruct Timothy of how to conduct himself as he begins his ministry. Diligence is “characterized by steady, earnest, and energetic effort” as defined by Merriam-Webster. This is a characteristic that we all should exhibit in our lives as Christians. It is a moral code that relates to our proper personality in Christ Jesus and of our actions as well. To be steady in our walk with Christ, earnest about our actions, and energetic about being an example of Christ in the world today.
Dear LORD,
We sometimes get bogged down by the demands of this earthly world in our daily routines, but please give us the strength to live beyond this world that we would be diligent in our service to You as Christians sharing the message of the gospel with all we come in contact with, in the joy of being Your children – in Christ. In Jesus name I pray, amen.