A Light-hearted Observation

Posted on February 10, 2023 by Elizabeth Welte in Victory Call

If you came this morning looking for a deeply spiritual encouragement – perhaps you should come back tomorrow.  Today I just was tickled by an ESV study note that triggered the light-hearted thought that I share today.  I believe “A joyful heart is good medicine.” (Proverbs 17:22)

Here’s the study note in 2 Thessalonians 3:17: “…and the final greeting was written in Paul’s own unique handwriting, which served as a mark of authenticity…”

We see this affirmation by Paul in several of his writings:
“I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand.” (1 Corinthians 16:21)
“See with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand.” (Galatians 6:11)
“I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.” (Colossians 4:18)
“I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. This is the sign of genuineness in every letter of mine; it is the way I write.” (2 Thessalonians 3:17)
“I, Paul, write this with my own hand…” (Philemon 1:19)

In light of the 2016 elections (no I’m not going political on you) I would like to offer this interpretation of what Paul was saying when he signed his letters in his own hand: In 2016 Election vernacular we can read it this way:  I am Paul, and I approve this message.

Smile.

 

Written by Diane Hunt: Diane Hunt serves on the board of America’s Keswick and is the Executive Director & CEO of Changed Choices, a Christian non-profit in North Carolina. She is also a biblical counselor and women’s event speaker. For more information about having Diane speak at your next event please contact her at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.

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This Week’s Verse to Memorize: “Your mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens; Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.” Psalm 36:5