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“"A spiritual Self-Pep Talk"”

Thoughts for Today:

In our passage today, Paul admits he was greatly disappointed with the Corinthians. So he didn't want to make his next visit painful for them by conveying his sadness in person. Why? Because it wouldn't be good for them or him.

We also see evidence that Paul had given himself a little spiritual self-pep talk. For example, he might have said, "Come on now Paul -- don't be so heavy. Don't go back there full of discouragement and with a heavy heart! Give them a chance to make it right." Paul is following the example of the Psalmist (Psalm 103:1-2): "Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefit." As a result, Paul had allowed God to change his mind regarding his travel plans.

Paul and the Psalmist reminded themselves to praise and not forget that God is in control and He is at work. They both are saying, "Get it together, soul. Wake up and start praising. Everything is going to work out just fine. Give the Lord some room to do His will in His time." It's a great example, and shows us how we too can give ourselves a personal spiritual self-pep talk whenever we need it. After all, everyone can use a little cheerleading from time to time, even if it's a self-administered reminder of what we already know.

Questions to Ponder:

Whenever I get depressed, worried or have any other difficulties, I call out to my soul (repeating the words of the Psalmist): "Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefit." Will you give yourself a spiritual self-pep talk the next time you feel discouraged? Will you remind yourself of the promises God has made throughout Scripture for our benefit? It will refresh, reenergize and change your perspective.

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About the author

Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.