2 Corinthians 7:1  “…let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit…”
Completion of the thought from previous chapter.  Since God has called us to be holy and sanctified, let us cleanse ourselves through repentance and obedience.

2-4  “Open your hearts to us…filled with comfort…exceedingly joyful in all our tribulation”
Paul’s relationship with them.  He’s been open with everything, his admonition, his praise.  He’s been right there with them through everything showing how much he cares.  He’s family, not an outsider trying to get something from them for his own benefit.

7  “…the consolation with which he was comforted in you…”
Paul had been concerned for their wellbeing and was comforted when he heard how well they were doing.  The fact that Titus was also encouraged by them made it that much better.  Hearing good news is one thing, hearing it from someone you trust who is just as excited to hear it makes it more real.

8-12  “…I do not regret it; though I did regret it…what zeal, what vindication!…you proved yourselves to be clear in this matter…our care for you in the sight of God might appear to you”
Gotta love Paul’s phrasing sometimes.  He writes as he thinks and feels.  He knew what they needed to hear and he told them, even though he knew it would hurt.  Truth is that way.  But wounds caused by the truth will heal because they are clean, and the one hurt will be better for it.  He hurt because they hurt, but he was very glad they listened to the truth and changed their ways.  They didn’t wallow in self pity or denial.  They were able to fix their problems by doing what was right.

13-16  “…I rejoice that I have confidence in you in everything”
Sounds like a “I knew you could do it!”  Praise and encouragement is always good, and so easy when it’s completely deserved.  Paul was confident of their desire to do what was right and shared it with Titus.  Now Titus is able to come from visiting them with news that they indeed fulfilled Paul’s confidence in them.  Pride of a father.

I hope you enjoy reading and studying His word.  May it accomplish what He desires.  Please feel free to comment or post questions.  Thanks for reading!

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.