2 Corinthians 6:14-7:4; Psalm 40:9-17

2 Corinthians 6:14-7:4
Paul urges the Corinthian believers to not team up with or become partners with unbelievers. This does not mean isolation because we are called to influence others for Christ, but we are not to lock ourselves into personal or business relationships that could cause us to compromise our faith. Paul tells believers who are already married to unbelievers to stay with their spouses in the hopes of winning them. (see 1 Cor. 7:12-13) But on the front end, going into partnerships, we are told to avoid such relationships. vv. 14-15

We are "the temple of the living God." He lives in us and walks among us. He is our God, and we are His people. "...let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God." vv 6:15-7:1 Obviously, we will never be completely holy in this life, but this passage calls on us to be growing and maturing in our faith. This is a daily process as we nourish ourselves with God's Word.

Paul longs for fellowship and harmony with the Corinthian believers. They needed him and he needed them just as we need one another today. Remember that church is not a place we go, but it is who we are--a body of believers! Let's always be ready to be a family and to encourage one another.

Psalm 40:9-17
David was bold in speaking out about God's faithfulness, His unfailing love, and His saving power. Even as he is giving his testimony to others, David is still asking God to show His tender mercies, love, and faithfulness. He asks for forgiveness and protection. This tells me that our relationship with God is a dynamic one. We do not praise Him once for all never to return to the subject, and we do not ask for His help once and then forget it. It's an ongoing relationship that requires our daily attention.

"May all who search for you be filled with joy and gladness in you. May those who love your salvation repeatedly shout, 'The Lord is great!'" v. 16

Then David ends the psalm with one more prayer, "You are my helper and my savior. O my God, do not delay." v. 17