Note 8 at 2 Cor. 7:6: Paul states that "God. . .comforteth those that are cast down." The words "cast down" carry the idea of that which is directed downward. Many translations translate this phrase with such words as "downcast, lowly, discouraged, dejected and downhearted." The Greek word "tapeinos" is translated 8 times in the authorized version in the following ways: "Of low degree" 2 times (Lk. 1:52; Jas. 1:9), "humble" 2 times (Jas. 4:6; 1 Pet. 5:5), "base" 1 time (2 Cor. 10:1), "cast down" 1 time (2 Cor. 7:6), "of low estate" 1 time (Rom. 12:16), and "lowly" 1 time (Mt. 11:29).

The Simple English translation states, "God comforts people who are down." Knox translation says, "But there is one who never fails to comfort whose who are brought low" (see note 6 at v. 5).

Note 9 at 2 Cor. 7:6: Part of the reason for Paul's pride and joy over the Corinthians is now explained in verses 5-7. Although there was much opposition and trials in Macedonia, Paul was comforted through the good report of Titus about the Corinthians. Paul is now glad for his previous letter that had brought the Corinthians to repentance and correction (vv. 8-10).

It was certainly the Holy Spirit that Paul drew his strength from, but in this instance, the Holy Spirit used something or someone natural (i.e. the coming of Titus and his good report) to encourage Paul. We should not be dependent on natural things to encourage us, but we should not refuse people and things that the Lord wants to use to bring that encouragement either. God uses people.