"godly sincerity"

Paul writes the second letter to the Corinthians and says in 1.12, "For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward."

Quite the mouthful. What is the Apostle really saying here?

As always, a definition from Webster's 1828 Dictionary:

Sincerity:  Honesty of mind or intention; freedom from simulation or hypocrisy. Freedom from hypocrisy, disguise or false pretense.

To further define the word, look at this sentence;  We may question a man's prudence, when we cannot question his sincerity.  

Titus 2:7, "In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,"

2 Cor 2:17, "For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity...in the sight of God speak we in Christ."

Phil 1.10, "That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ."

Allow an anecdotal account of the last scripture noted: 

One day this blogger came across Phil 1.10.  There had always been a reservation of heart when expressing love towards others that weren't family.  The truth is, whilst growing up, much distrust had developed due to unkind words in this youngster's world. Then, a respected person said, "You could receive more blessings if you loved more."  Backgrounds matter.  Things that shape who one is, matters. I later replied of Phil 1.9, 10 as to "why" I couldn't "love more."  To be "sincere" and honest, I had to love "in (the) knowledge" I had grown up with.  A rebuttal of my reasoning was again given, "but you could receive more blessings."  I understood but was again hurt by the nonacceptance of my "sincerity." The conclusion, after reading Phil 1.9, 10 was that one 'couldn't' be more than what was given to a tender heart.  To be "sincere," I couldn't "love" more than my heart would allow.  

The answer the Lord gave to this last hurtful response was to "leave the respected person as they were and carry on in "sincerity."  This indeed quieted my heart as I wait on "more love" to give.

I understand we are to be "overcomers in Christ," (I Jn 4.4) but one cannot be "more" than they are.  The very definition of sincerity is "honesty of mind or intention," not a "hypocrit."

So, break the phrase down a bit further, "godly sincerity."  The truth is to be sincere, one must be so in Christ as seen in 2 Cor 2.17.  We are indeed overcomers.

But, if you can't, you can't.  At least refrain from hypocrisy in any given situation, circumstance or conversation.  This blogger believes and practices, as much as possible being "real."  What the world sees in you must be consistent with your "realness."  As a believer are you consistent in manner, behavior and speech?  Would a nonbeliever already know how you would think, speak or act and to WHO you belong?  Or do you waver in your ways? (Jms 1.8)

Whatever you do, do it with "godly sincerity."  You will be the winner in spirit, mind and heart.

Blessings, Ps 57.7