Mature Joyfully

The conclusion is a vital component in a speech. It gives the speaker another opportunity to remind the listeners of the key points that were shared. This allows the listeners to recall why the topic was important and why this topic is relevant to the listener.

When the Apostle Paul wrote his second letter to the Corinthian Church, he concluded with four guidelines for living that should be part of their lives in 2 Corinthians 13:11 NLT. He said, “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.”

First, he said be joyful. I like Rick Warren’s definition of joy: “Joy is the settled assurance that God is in control of all the details of my life, the quiet confidence that ultimately everything is going to be alright and the determined choice to praise God in every situation.”  It is not something that happens by chance; it is something that happens on the inside that is not dependent on external circumstances. “You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore.” (Psalm 16:11 AMP) Real joy is found in the presence of the Lord.

Next, he said grow in maturity. Why was this important then and is still important today? Spiritual maturity has nothing to do with how long you are following Jesus Christ but how committed you are to following the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ. It has to do with saying no to self and yes to the will and purpose of God. It’s a daily saying not my will but Your will be done. So, we should make  striving for these things a priority in our lives.

Thought for Today: Friend, grow joyfully.

Have a blessed day and walk in faith and victory.

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