2 Corinthians 7 - Godly Grief vs. Worldly Grief

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​2 Corinthians 7

Two girls post a hurtful picture and comment on social media, betraying the trust of someone who considered them a friend. Both thought it was anonymous, but it was quickly discovered they were the ones who posted it. Not only is their friend devastated, but there is backlash they didn’t expect. Both are full of grief over the situation. However, the reaction of each is different.
 
One girl immediately starts texting her friends, telling lie after lie to cover up her offense and gather allies in her corner. She tells herself the girl deserved it and convinces herself that she is the victim. Her grief is self-centered and self-preserving. It becomes a cycle of further destruction.
 
The other girl’s reaction is quite different. She sees the hurt that she caused and is deeply grieved. She realizes she has offended not only her friend, but worse, God. She quietly drops to her knees in the middle of her room and prays. She hates what she has done and cries out to God. She decides to step away from social media for a season. She picks up the phone to call her friend and ask forgiveness. Her heart is changed. She never wants to do anything like that again.
 
Paul tells us, “Godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death”. 2 Corinthians 7:10
 
Both girls committed an offense, but only one had Godly grief over it. Where worldly grief is self-focused, full of shame over getting caught and worry about self-image and people’s reactions, Godly grief results in repentance and heart change. Worldly grief leads to further covering up, pride, fear, and often more regrettable actions. Godly grief leads to salvation and restoration.
 
The unfortunate reality is we will all have regrets inflicted by our own sinful actions. The good news is that God works all things for good, including our sorrow and regrets if we allow Him to.  May we always have Godly grief when we mess up and choose the path of repentance.
 
(Taken from my post in the TAE app for tween/teen girls. Check out their page for creative resources for girls and women…amazing Bible studies, all sprinkled with fabulous art projects.)

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