THROUGH THE BIBLE IN THREE YEARS
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Once the big safe in the jewelry store broke. The owner had to call a locksmith from 400 miles away to open the safe. When he received the bill it was for $1,500.00!!
The owner said, "I want that bill itemized."
So the safe man sat down and wrote an itemized bill:
1. Travel expense - $100.00
2. Opening safe - $100.00
3. Knowing how - $1,300.00!
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2 Cor 7:5-7
5 For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears.
6 Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus;
7 And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.
KJV
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Paul had met difficulty preaching the gospel in Troas, and then in Ephesus. But he had a vision of a man calling from Macedonia for help, so he went there. It was there, in Phillipi (the "chief" city of Macedonia), that Lydia was saved, and opened a church in her home.
But also while he was there, Paul asked God to release a young lady from the demon that was troubling her. This young lady had been a source of income for some sorcerers. The young lady having been healed, they lost their source of income. That made them really angry, and they caused a crowd gather and beat Paul and Silas. Then they had them put in jail.
The foregoing incident led to Paul and Silas praying and singing in prison. There was an earthquake, the prisoners were freed - but none escaped. This miracle led to the jailor and his whole house being saved.
Paul recounts these incidents (in our text above) as causing him to be "without rest...and troubled on every side." But the visit of Titus cheered him. Titus brought good news about Paul's first letter to Corinth being received with humble hearts, and changes being made in the church. That news was from God Himself, sent through Titus.
"God, that comforteth those that are cast down," knows JUST WHEN to send us help!
You and I can go to someone who is "cast down," but we cannot cheer them. Only God can. However, God does give us "good news" about the wonderful blessings of His ministry through us that will comfort even the most distressed Christian.
What Christian do you know that is "cast down?" God may be seeking your help in ministering to that person. You may go and tell them some good news about someone they helped previously, and how that was a blessing.
Hearing testimony about someone they have helped through Christ, will cheer even the most distraught soul.
Be a blessing. Carry some "good news." Let God comfort someone through you.
Love ya,
Bruce