1 CORINTHIANS 1:4-9
Affirmation, in the context of this meditation, is the act or process of affirming something; emotional support or encouragement.
200,000 employees were questioned as part of a study to uncover the missing component in their productivity. According to the findings, the most important things they desired from their bosses were appreciation and affirmation. According to the same study, receiving affirmation is a basic human need.
Before bombarding the Corinthian believers with stern words of chastisement, the apostle Paul seemed to understand this essential need in them, so he showered them with affirmation. Paul opened his letter as their spiritual leader by thanking God for the grace he had seen in them.
These believers, who had previously been separated from God, were now sharing in His grace through Christ’s death and resurrection. They drew their spiritual life from Jesus when they were united with Him, and the fruit of this union was their spiritual growth in godliness (1 Cor. 1:4-7). Paul appreciated God for His work in the lives of the Corinthian believers. Because of Paul’s gentle affirmation, I suppose they were better able to take his harsh criticism.
Let us take time to affirm persons who are obeying God and thank God for what He is accomplishing through them when we see them.
Praise people loudly and correct them softly.
🙏🏼Lord, You are at work in my life and in the lives of those around me in so many ways. Help me to encourage my Christian brothers and sisters by telling them how happy and thankful I am to see Your work in their lives.
