APRIL 4
They delivered the epistle: which when they had read, they rejoiced for the consolation [or, exhortation].
The exhortation had its desired effect of encouraging and building up the believers; they rejoiced for it. The soul that is close to the Lord longs for direction or even correction from the Lord. How is it, then, that sometimes when we receive exhortation we are agitated rather than comforted? There can be a big difference between correction and criticism: correction is helpful and should encourage; criticism tears down and discourages. If you receive a word of criticism, look for any correction in it, take it from the Lord, and rejoice.