Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. – 2 Corinthians 13:11
Automobile manufacturers provide owner’s manuals with each new vehicle. It instructs the owner on the proper use of each feature, and what is recommended to maintain it in good working condition. They generally recommend a complete tune-up every 30,000 to 45,000 miles. The frequency of those tune-ups largely depends on the age of the vehicle, the driving habits of the operator, and driving conditions on the roadways. If the engine is running rough, if its efficiency declines, or if shifting gears creates problems, an appointment with the dealer or mechanic becomes a priority.
Your spiritual life is very much like your vehicle. You have an operating manual, God’s Word, that instructs you in the practical maintenance of how you live and how you should react in times of trouble. But what about those tune-ups? Many Christians avail themselves of an occasional retreat, getting away from the monotony of life to focus on the Lord. Others might engage in a period of fasting and prayer. Some may just commit to spend more time in their own Bible study and communion with God in prayer. Whichever works for you, it is important to recognize that the way your life is going, the conditions you are facing, and the decisions you are facing may require “putting yourself in the shop” and letting the Chief Mechanic give your soul that tune-up.
Today’s verse may be a starting point in evaluating your need for a tune-up. When your life conforms to the Paul’s admonitions, theologian John MacArthur says you will “experience the powerful and enriching presence of God. On the other hand, [believers] that lack joy, submission, truth, and unity will find themselves lacking God’s blessing.” When you are in tune with God, knowing that all is well, and you are centered in His will for your life, you can go on your way rejoicing.
Today’s Verse: 2 Corinthians 13:11
Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: 2 Corinthians 13:5-11
5 Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test! 6 I hope you will find out that we have not failed the test. 7 But we pray to God that you may not do wrong—not that we may appear to have met the test, but that you may do what is right, though we may seem to have failed. 8 For we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth. 9 For we are glad when we are weak and you are strong. Your restoration is what we pray for. 10 For this reason I write these things while I am away from you, that when I come I may not have to be severe in my use of the authority that the Lord has given me for building up and not for tearing down.
11 Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
