For today, we are here in 2 Corinthians chapter 7.

I'm going to read verses 5 through 7 and then we'll skip to the end of the chapter.

But we'll start here at 2 Corinthians 7 at verse 5, where Paul writes,

For indeed, when we came to Macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were troubled on every side.

And then underline this, outside were conflicts. Inside were fears.

Verse six, nevertheless God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus,

and not only by his coming, but also by the consolation with which he was comforted in you,

when he told us of your earnest desire, your mourning, your zeal for me, so that I rejoiced even more.

Now jump down to verse 13.

Verse 13, he continues, therefore we have been comforted in your comfort, and we rejoiced

exceedingly more for the joy of Titus because his spirit has been refreshed by you all.

For if any, for if in anything I have boasted to him about you, I am not ashamed, but as we spoke

all things to you in truth, even so our boasting to Titus was found true.

And his affections are greater for you as he remembers the obedience of you all.

How with fear and trembling you received him, therefore I rejoice that I have confidence in you in everything.

Let's pause there and pray.

Father God, we thank you for this time in your house together.

It is good to be in the house of the Lord.

Even your word says, I was glad when they said unto me.

Let us go to the house of the Lord.

It is good for us to be here, to worship you, to fellowship with one another,

to open up our Bibles and to study together.

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