We conclude the book of Corinthians with these final advices from the apostle Paul to all believers; "Dear brothers and sisters, I close my letter with these last words: Be joyful. Grow to maturity. Encourage each other. Live in harmony and peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you." 2Cor 13:11 NLT.
At a time when it looks like there is nothing to be joyful about in our world; wars and rumours of war every where, the economies of nations are failing, inflation is wiping off many people's life's savings, the very fabric of society is being tested and it seems to be failing. Paul says, be joyful. Not be happy, be joyful. Joy is a fruit of the Spirit. That knowing and glow from with that let's you know it will all be okay. Be joyful because you know how this all ends, it will be in our victory. Be joyful because you know it will all work out for your good.
Next, Paul says to grow to maturity. Only those feeding on a good diet of the word and practicing the lessons there will grow. And growing and maturing is what will better prepare us to handle the times ahead. It is the one reason I encourage you should read your Bible everyday and trust God to apply the lessons there.
Paul then says to encourage one another. Our platforms and gifts, whether ministerial or spiritual, are giving to us to support one another. Please ensure that your actions are not pulling others down, especially other believers. Let them be for building up and encouraging one another to go on living for the Lord.
Finally, Paul says to live in harmony and peace with one another. It doesn't mean that offenses will not come and that we won't find reasons to want to give up our fellowship with one another. Paul's instructions here seems to be saying, do it deliberately, protect it even. May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all.
