Who are we? Paul tells us we are “the temple of the living God.” That is quite a responsibility. We make up the temple together. Holy places are to be protected and revered. Pressures of the world can take a toll on us, so how do we shield ourselves? Paul knew that we would face temptation when surrounded by unbelievers.
I always appreciate when Paul brings in Old Testament texts to emphasize his point. Here, Paul quotes the law and prophets to remind us of God’s promises. God wants to have a relationship with us. He wants to pour himself into us so we can share his grace with others. What does being a temple of the living God mean to you?
Does Paul really want us to be separate from non-believers? If we stay away from them, how can we help them find Jesus? Paul knew that it is easy to be tempted by a non-believer when our own faith is new and growing. It’s better to be “in” the world but not “of” the world. I recently heard an interesting example using a boat. A boat should be in the water, but water should not be in the boat. Paul gives us the image of cleansing ourselves of what defiles us.
Paul’s counsel in Romans 12:2 also fits here. “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” When we’re open to being transformed by God, we start to live in this world without fear, pointing others to God’s life-changing promises.
What do you think of Paul’s motivation for life? “And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God.” Thankfully, Paul recognizes we are imperfect and encourages us to be working toward being the better versions of ourselves. In that way, we are all a work in progress. God created us to be in community with him, seeking His holiness. But we fall short every time. We simply need to keep trying, fueled by the awe and wonder we feel for God.
Do you find yourself feeling a bit discouraged these days? Many people are reeling from one worry or another. What breaks my heart is to see division between friends, families, and churches over issues that need to be dealt with. Paul even speaks of facing the hard conversations and dealing with sin head-on rather than looking the other way.
It’s in times like this that Paul’s reminder about God’s character is something we can cling to. Paul said our loving God “encourages those who are discouraged.” Take your pain and discouragement before Jesus; be honest with him. Jesus will help you work through your pain because He’s the best friend we’ll ever have. Ask God for the strength you need.
God uses us to be encouragers to those around us, too. We can actively encourage others by our words and deeds. Sometimes we aren’t even aware when we are encouraging others, simply by leading the way with our own faith journey. Don’t be surprised by how God might use you today.
How do people see you handling your troubles? Do we reflect Biblical principles effectively? People are watching Christians these days, as if waiting for us to stumble or do something perceived as wrong. There can be a lot of pressure when you feel like you’re under the microscope. That kind of scrutiny was “normal” for us as a pastor’s family. Never avoid an opportunity to encourage others, as the Corinthians apparently were to Paul.
What does that encouragement look like? Paul mentions Titus as a good example. “Now he cares for you more than ever when he remembers the way all of you obeyed him and welcomed him with such fear and deep respect.” Titus needed that reassurance. I’m sure we’ve all faced times of uncertainty or feeling that God has us on an assignment way out of our comfort zone. Let yourself be comforted in the fact that you are not alone.
Many disciples have gone before us, and many will carry the torch for Christ in the future. Today, focus on your identity in Christ, your associations, and how you show up as an encourager to other believers.
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, help me be more like you. Cleanse me from the vile nature of the world around me. Forgive me for my weaknesses that limit my ability to serve you and encourage others. I am so grateful to be your daughter. Guide me and move me closer to you each day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
