2 Corinthians 7:5
For from the time that we came to Macedonia, we had no relief for our body, but we were tormented in all things: combat from without, and fear from within.
*Strong's Ex. Conc. No. 3600/2852 & 2346
Tormented: to suffer pain; to be mistreated violently
Pressed: afflicted, hard pressed, constricted, compressed
I used the Aramaic translation for today's verse because it explained best to me this verse. But finding the correct definition of 'tormented' in this instance took some time, as there are many types of torment.
Paul is writing from their personal experience of being violently coming against for bringing the gospel to Macedonia. At the same time in which he and his companion(s) are being come against personally, their thoughts began to bring fear into the equation. So, from both the outside and the inside they felt tormented, compressed.
Ever seen an apple squeeze? That's pressing hard from two sides to produce something that doesn't even resemble an apple, yet is sweet to the taste and quenches a body's thirst. That's what was happening here. Being hard pressed on every side, these men were becoming something more, being changed and conformed to a sweeter taste in the Lord.
It is the same for every born again believer who is willing to share the gospel of salvation through Jesus Christ. We must be willing to stand up for Jesus in the Love of God. We are not violent. We do not take up arms against the unbeliever. If we need defending, Christ is our Defense. We must pursue righteousness every step of the way.
We overcome fear that rises up within us by the Word which is in us. The Holy Spirit upon us, and working through us and in us, girds us up and builds a fire within us to keep going, to keep speaking the Name of Jesus and God's message of salvation and deliverance.
He reminds us that we are strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Our strength is in the Lord, not in ourselves. The only power that is wielded is the power of God bursting forth from our obedience to Him.
In this day and age in which we currently live, born again believers are not welcome. Our differences set us apart boldly. We have one voice: we speak the Love of God. We have one heart: we pursue godly agendas. We have one name: born again believer.
And we have one Savior: the only begotten Son of God Jesus Christ, the Messiah who was promised in the Old Testament and revealed in the New Testament.
Lord, use us for Your glory as we bring Your Word to a lost and dying world who desperately need You. Help us to bring You to each and every one who hungers for Truth and Love and Friendship that is faithful and sure.
In Your Wonderful Name,
Amen.
PRESSED FOR THE BETTER (A Jesus Culture playlist)
Alive In You
Where You Go, I Go
My Soul Longs For You
Break Every Chain
One Thing Remains
Fill Me Up
Rooftops
Set A Fire
Your Love Never Fails
