Revcort's Ramblings

Scripture Focus

“Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Or do we need, as some do, letters of recommendation to you, or from you? You yourselves are our letter of recommendation, written on our hearts, to be known and read by all. And you show that you are a letter from Christ delivered by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.” – 2 Corinthians 3:1–3 (ESV)

Devotional Thought

Our flesh craves recognition. We like to be noticed, praised, and affirmed by others. In the Corinthian church, some believers questioned Paul’s authority because he lacked formal letters of recommendation. They wanted written proof before trusting his words. But Paul redirects their attention: his true validation wasn’t on paper—it was in their lives.

The Corinthians themselves were Paul’s letter. Their transformed hearts, their faith in Christ, and the very existence of their church testified louder than any ink could. Paul reminds them that the Spirit of the living God writes not on stone tablets or human commendations, but on the human heart. Changed lives are the clearest evidence of God’s work.

We often fall into the same trap. We look for approval through titles, achievements, or recognition from others. But in the kingdom of God, true validation comes from lives transformed by Christ. You may never receive an award for your faithfulness, but every person you lead closer to Jesus, every act of kindness that plants a seed, every prayer whispered over someone in need—these are living letters, written not by you but by God’s Spirit.

The question is not, “Do others recognize me?” but “Do others see Christ written on my heart?”

Reflection Questions

1. Where are you most tempted to seek human recognition instead of God’s approval?

2. Who in your life stands as a “living letter” of your witness to Christ?

3. How can you focus more on being a vessel of Christ’s Spirit rather than chasing commendation?

Closing Prayer

Lord, forgive me for seeking the approval of people more than the approval of Christ. Write Your truth on my heart so clearly that others can see Jesus in me without a word spoken. Thank You for those who have been living letters of Your grace in my life. Help me, by Your Spirit, to be that same testimony to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.