The Psalmist begins with the statement "Do not be agitated by evildoers." This is easy enough to say, but harder to accomplish. Thankfully, we are not just told not to be agitated but are shown how we can delight in the Lord even when evil seems like it has the upper hand. Our delight in the Lord is not dictated by our circumstances, but rather is grown over time as the Lord changes our hearts. 

Psalm 137 stands alone as a sad, angry lament giving readers insight into the pain of a people who have lost everything. What can we learn from lamenting well? What should we learn when the Lord has us in a form of time out?  

Ecclesiastes offers a sober, honest observation of life, one that exposes the emptiness of a life detached from God. Chapter nine reminds us that life is unpredictable and death is inevitable, yet it also urges us to "Go, Live Fully", leaning into wisdom, remembering that God will repay each person according to what they have done with their life.

True spiritual victory isn't found in our stubborn hustle or trying to lift our own burdens, but in choosing to "be still" and allowing God's ever-present strength to fight our battles for us.

As Paul is finishing his letter, he has some final instructions for the church. Mostly practical directions, a few reminders, then he anchors the final section with a reminder to the Church of his deep love for them. 

Paul reminds the believers in Corinth, the hope of our faith is rooted in Christ’s resurrection power. Without resurrection, this life would be all we have and faith would be empty. But Christ did rise, and that changes everything!

As Paul nears the end of his letter, he reminds the Corinthians of the importance of the Gospel. He has addressed many issues within the church, and the power to change those issues come from a Gospel message that transforms. Paul doesn't just tell them it is important, but shows them why it is important.

The church in Corinth would be a poster child for disorder. Today, we are left with a letter that helps us see how important it is to bring order and peace where confusion thrives. Sometimes we choose to remove people in an effort to can clean up. However, God planted a church in the middle of a messy community, with messy people, and called them to live for Him. Simply put, God moved in…. Amen! 

God made man with purpose and strength. However, we see so many men distracted and entangled without direction. 

Paul turns his attention from the gifts that were evident in this early church, to reminding them love is vital for Christians to be verified as followers of Jesus.