2 Corinthians 7:7; Your Earnest Desire

2 Corinthians 7:7 And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.

The Apostle Paul was consoled in the heart to know the Corinthian church had an earnest or genuine love for him, in other words, to hearken to his counsel concerning their spiritual well-being. Sin was dealt with. Titus brought this heartening report to the comfort of God’s dear servant.

The fervent mind, describes an active enthusiasm, ardent affection, keen interest toward the Apostle Paul’s letter and his concern for them. They were willing to obey the instructions of the letter. There was an earnest desire to seek the Lord’s will, the humility of heart to follow the Lord, mourning for sins, a kind and regard toward God’s servant.

Charles H. Gabriel wrote these words of comfort of the penitent experience of Christ’s love. A fitting picture of God’s consolation to the heart whose sins are forgiven.

He Lifted Me

In lovingkindness Jesus came
My soul in mercy to reclaim,
And from the depths of sin and shame
Thru grace He lifted me.

(Chorus)
From sinking sand He lifted me,
With tender hand He lifted me;
From shades of night to plains of light,
O praise His name, He lifted me!