July 31| 2 Corinthians 3:16-4:12

Judy Webb
Jul 31, 2025
2 min read

DAILY READING

REFLECTION

All For Christ's Sake

By Judy Webb

"We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that His life may also be revealed in our mortal body. So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you."

(2 Corinthians 4:10-12)

There is light and life in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. In this letter from Paul, he discusses how God uses our suffering to spread His word. And spreading His word if our work in this life; it is our calling and our purpose. Once we understand and embrace this as our true purpose, we begin to discern what truly matters. We grasp how impactful our witness is to those who are watching us.

Life can be hard, just ask the Apostle Paul. Once he turned his life over to Christ, it wasn’t all fun and games. Many think a Christian’s life is one of ease with no problems--but quite the opposite is true. The very fact that Paul’s work was difficult and challenging speaks to its value. His ministry was born out of trials for that is when he began to shine for Jesus. He was beaten, imprisoned, shipwrecked, jeered and insulted but still he kept on telling about Jesus.

“For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him." (Philippians 1:29)

Personal challenges and difficulties can lead to growth. What really matters is the impact our life has on others. Paul’s life became a testimony to those who followed him. “So, then death is at work in us…” the physical and emotional toll of ministry refer to us dying to our old self. “But life is at work in you…” suffering serves a purpose when it brings spiritual vitality to others.

PRAYER

Oh, Father God,

We want to be used by You. We long to offer up our suffering and hardships as a true testimony to You and Your faithfulness. Let our story be that beacon of hope that encourages others. Use our testimonies to witness. Amen.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JUDY WEBB

I have been a member of UALC for 26 years and have been writing devotions for this site for about 17 of them. Writing is my passion. As retired staff I still love everything about UALC and its members including my small group.