Even if I caused you sorrow by my letter, I do not regret it. Though I did regret it—I see that my letter hurt you, but only for a little while--
Thoughts for Today:In our passage today, Paul says he regretted sending his first letter. Why? Because he knew it hurt them. But he also knew they would grow. Therefore he no longer regretted his words. Many times I too have regretted the things IÕve said, done, or written. Like Paul, my heart may have been right at the time I first began, but then doubt entered and I started to second-guess my actions.
What's the solution? Should we not begin because we might do the wrong thing? I think the key is to do our best for God at every given moment, so whether we're teaching, sharing the Gospel, or involved in any other activity. If what we're doing is our response to being fully committed to the Lord, then we can be certain He will adjust our heart, words, intent, action and ultimately the result, to be in accordance with His will. Although it doesn't give us permission to be callous, injudicious, or foolish in what we do, I am always comforted in the knowledge that God can use even my mortal and flawed efforts for His glory. (Hebrews 13:21: "...equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever.")
Questions to Ponder:Do you live in bondage to doubt or regret? Will you do your best for the Lord? Seek the counsel of other strong Christians and get involved in serving others.