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“"Blunders or Victories?"”

Thoughts for Today:

Previously, Paul explained that he left unfinished work (an "open door") in Troas, to go in search of his friend Titus. Why? Because he "had no peace of mind." He was unsettled, uneasy, not relaxed, and generally "restless in spirit" (KJV). So how did this sequence of events turn out? Apparently he found Titus in Macedonia, and then received from him the information he desired regarding the Corinthian church.

In our passage today, Paul sums up this whole scenario -- he was both grateful and relieved that God had taken his possible missteps (failure to return to Corinth when promised, and leaving Troas in search of Titus), and turned them into a victory march ("triumphal procession in Christ"). As a result, rather than stinking up two cities with his own human limitations and vision; God spread "the fragrance of the knowledge of Him" throughout. In other words, God transformed two potential pastoral blunders into victories for the Kingdom. I like that a lot. It sure takes a lot of pressure off of us individually.

Questions to Ponder:

In Romans 8:28, Paul said, "And we know that in all things God works together with those who love him to bring about what is good." So what's the secret to blunders or victories? Only one thing: Love God. If we do, He will bring about what is good. Are you unsettled, uneasy, or restless in spirit? Why? What is God calling you to do or stop doing? Will you? Will you allow God to turn your potential blunders into a "triumphal procession". How? By remaining in Christ.

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About the author

Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.