Read 1 Corinthians 1:1 through 5:13
Members of a writer’s group sat at their normal places. As usual, a debate erupted. One participant had read his new story to the group. They all loved it, but each person wanted a different opening. They felt the beginning was dull. They wanted drama, conflict, action. So, the group discussed various openings to draw attention and lure readers into the story.
Throughout the Pauline epistles, the pages include conflict. First Corinthians is no exception. Paul began the letter with words of greeting and power.
God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord (1 Corinthians 1:9).
Paul wanted the church in Corinth—the church in conflict—to find true fellowship, togetherness, harmony. As the Corinthians struggled for unity and faithfulness, Paul reminded them of God—the one who is faithful.
God’s faithfulness can be the lines of truth that heal deep wounds and heal hurting people during their times of conflict.
Challenge for Today:
Write these three words during your time of stress: “God is faithful.”
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