Our letters have been straightforward, and there is nothing written between the lines and nothing you can't understand. 

I hope someday you will fully understand us, even if you don't understand us now. Then on the day when the Lord Jesus returns, you will be proud of us in the same way we are proud of you.

2 Corinthians 1:13-14 NLT

What an interesting insight into Paul and Timothy. 

And us. 

Even when we think we're being straightforward and easily understood, things we say and write are not always as clear to others as we hope or intend. 

And Paul and Timothy just want to be accepted. 

Just like us. 

I've been challenged lately that my finely tuned and well practiced ability to judge others and to pin labels or pigeon hole them quickly is not very helpful. 

It's not helpful in understanding people or hearing their story when I've already made judgements about them. 

And it doesn't help anyone feel accepted. 

Paul and Timothy are proud of the people they're writing to. Does that mean they're perfect?

Nup. 

But they love them, accept them, are proud of them, and that's all they want back, to be loved and accepted.

Our God who does this (even when I don't). 

He sees us

Knows us

Accepts us

Is proud of us.

Is proud of you. 

#corinthians

#youareBeloved