Faith Comes by Hearing

Lady of Light

In Paul's letter to Philemon, it is interesting to look at the first seven verses which are a prayer and an encouragement to brother Philemon:

"Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon, our dearly beloved and fellow-labourer. And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellow soldier and to the church in thy house." Philemon 1-2.

As we look at this introductory greeting, we can see that Paul acknowledges his and Timothy's love for these brothers in the lord and that there is a church in a house.

"Grace to you and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers." v. 3-4

Wishing grace and peace to our brothers and sisters in the Lord is a wonderful way to encourage them and being thankful for them and committing them to prayer is another special way of relating to those in the body of Christ.

"Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus and toward all the Saints; That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus." v. 5-6

This shows that reputation of faith and love is an important by product of Christian faith and that HEARING of this is an encouragement to all - the faith is effective because of communication in which seeing God's goodness living in these people is a testimony and encouragement.

"For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother". v. 7.

Here, Paul encourages Philemon and acknowledges how he refreshes the saints. This makes me consider how important it is to be an encourager and a refresher. All of us can always use a kind word, a prayer, a shared insight from the Word. Even a cheerful greeting as you meet strangers while going through your day can make a difference.

To me, this is a challenge to commit more people to prayer, to appreciate and express more appreciation for the people in my life, for God's goodness and faith of others.

I hope this inspires you to have a strong appreciation and to act upon it in your life.

God bless you and have a great day!

Lady of Light