2 Corinthians 7:14-16; Confidence in You

2 Corinthians 7:14-16 For if I have boasted any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed; but as we spake all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, which I made before Titus, is found a truth. And his inward affection is more abundant toward you, whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him. I rejoice therefore that I have confidence in you in all things.

There was a warm reception of Titus at his coming to the church in Corinth. The letter that he carried from the Apostle Paul was well received. The confidence that the Apostle Paul had of their faith in God was not overstated. The fear of God, the reverence for God’s servant was evident to Titus. He confirmed the Apostle Paul’s assessment of their growing faith. There were fruits of repentance shown in their reception of Titus.

I am reminded of the testimony of Zacchaeus after he was saved.

 ⁸And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord; Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold.

Zacchaeus was a changed man after he met Jesus. He confessed that he was an unworthy sinner, repented of his sins and sought to make right for all the wrong that he had done. His wealth had often come through unjust means. When he was converted, he sought to obey God’s law, rectifying all his past misdeeds. He was willing to give away one half of all his wealth to the poor. He was willing to repay four times according to the Old Testament Law for what he had stolen and not returned.

Praise the Lord for the Spirit’s fruit in the believer’s life. Amen.