God's Glory Church

“Because this is our praise, the testimony of our conscience that in the holiness and purity of God… we lived in the world.” — 2 Corinthians 1:12

In 1524, Martin Luther shared the observation: “All merchants have one general rule, their main principle: As long as I make a profit and satisfy my lust, I do not care what happens to my neighbor.” More than two hundred years later, John Woolman, a store owner in Mount Holly, New Jersey, decided that his guiding principle in all business would be devotion to Christ. He fought for the liberation of slaves, so he refused to buy cotton and dyes from companies that used forced labor. Woolman strove to have a clear conscience, to love his neighbors and to conduct all his affairs honestly.

The apostle Paul also sought to live “in holiness and purity” (2 Cor. 1:12). When false apostles came to Corinth and tried to destroy his apostolic authority, he reminded the Corinthians of his life. His words and deeds could stand the most scrutiny (v. 13). In addition, in his ministry he relied on God’s power and grace, not on human wisdom (v. 12). Therefore, in all his affairs, Paul was guided by faith in Christ.

We are the messengers of Jesus Christ in this world. Let’s make efforts so that the Good News sounds in all areas of our lives – in the family, at work and in everything else. Only thanks to God’s power and His grace will we be able to truly serve God well and love our neighbors.

How is faith in Jesus Christ reflected in your words and actions? Why are honesty and sincerity so important in Christian relationships with other people?

Dear God, help me to serve others with such a clear conscience that my love for them is evident.

Author: Marvin Williams