devotional post # 2177

2Co 6:8b We are treated like impostors, even though we are genuine servants;
2Co 6:9 like we are unknown, even though we are well known; like we are dying, and notice, we are alive; like we are being punished, and yet not killed;
2Co 6:10 like we are sorrowful, yet we are always rejoicing; like we are poor, yet we are making many rich; like we have nothing, yet we possess everything.

resume, line three

Paul concludes this resume to the Corinthians by pointing out that the faithful service that his team has rendered has resulted in a completely negative reaction. The very people who have been given the gospel are now shunning and complaining about the missionaries who brought them this gift. So, the entire team stands with their mouths open in shock as they are being ostracized by the very people that they liberated with the good news of Christ.

I wish I could say that Paul’s was the only missions team in history who felt this dishonor. It keeps happening. And the servants of God keep going back to serve him, because giving people new life in Christ is ultimately a service first to Christ, then to others in his name. It is wonderful to be appreciated for what we do. But we must do it for Christ’s name, even if our own name is brought to dishonor.

LORD, give us the courage to preach the gospel, even if we are not appreciated for it.