THE GOD WHO COMFORTS THE DOWNCAST
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Looking at all of Paul’s apparent certainty, bold words of faith and encouragement, and the courage with which he confronted those who opposed him, as well as the dangers of travel and mission, we can be tempted to forget that he was human.
He admitted it in a theological sense, as he described wrestling with sin and weakness (see, for example, Romans 7:8–24). But there is less evidence in his letters of such all-too-human experiences as fatigue, fear, or discouragement, which is why the personal insights in a comment such as this are an important reminder of Paul’s common humanity. Beset by conflict and fear, Paul and his traveling companions were tired and downcast.
But Paul recognized God’s provision and comfort in Titus’ arrival and the news he brought from the believers in Corinth. That the Corinthians had encouraged Titus was also encouraging for Paul (see 2 Corinthians 7:6, 7). They were not alone.
God, too, had noticed their discouragement, which was a source of comfort in itself. Titus and his report of the Corinthian believers’ “ardent concern” for Paul meant that his “joy was greater than ever” (2 Corinthians 7:7). He admitted that he had been downcast, but he now had fresh energy. That Paul sometimes needed encouragement does not undermine the powerful things, the words of courage and encouragement, that he wrote in his letters to the churches. Instead, his discouragement makes his faith, hope, and courage shine all the brighter. This experience also reminds us of the importance of believing and working together with others with whom we can share encouragement. Most importantly, Paul’s fears point us to Jesus, the One who can give us courage when we are afraid, new hope when we are weary, and His presence when we are threatened and troubled.
