12 For our [1]proud confidence is this : the testimony of our conscience , that in holiness and godly sincerity , not in fleshly wisdom but in the grace of God , we have conducted ourselves in the world , and especially toward you. 13 For we write nothing else to you than what you read and understand , and I hope you will understand until the end ; 14 just as you also partially did understand us, that we are your reason to be proud as you also are ours , in the day of our Lord Jesus .
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 1:12-14
Commentary on 2 Corinthians 1:12-14
(Read 2 Corinthians 1:12-14)
Though, as a sinner, the apostle could only rejoice and glory in Christ Jesus, yet, as a believer, he might rejoice and glory in being really what he professed. Conscience witnesses concerning the steady course and tenor of the life. Thereby we may judge ourselves, and not by this or by that single act. Our conversation will be well ordered, when we live and act under such a gracious principle in the heart. Having this, we may leave our characters in the Lord's hands, but using proper means to clear them, when the credit of the gospel, or our usefulness, calls for it.