Listening & Learning — A Devotional

Introduction

COMMUNICATION. v.6

COMMUNICATION. v.6 Effective. The sharing of faith promotes the knowledge of all that is good in Christ Jesus. "Communicating" is simply sharing our faith by demonstrating practical acts of kindness that show love for the saints. Feeding the hungry, comforting those who have lost loved ones, and coming alongside those who are sick or distressed are all ways we demonstrate evidence of growing in grace because of God at work in us. The life of a believer can lead others to know all the good that is in the Christian life and to use that influence and power to demonstrate the love of God in human flesh. This fellowship connects believers through acts of kindness and fruitfulness. Truth has a way of revealing God through the lives of believers who do what they do as unto Christ, for His glory, His honor, and His praise.

News of Philemon's generosity and sacrificial love comforted Paul while he was imprisoned in Rome. Paul was clearly confident that Philemon would show forgiveness and love to Onesimus. Philemon provided Paul with joy and encouragement, even though he was unaware of it.

Good thing. Leading a soul to Christ is always a privilege, and hearing about their faithfulness in serving the Lord brings great reward. Our actions influence others, and our impact often extends further than we expect. Our potential for both good and evil is truly limitless, so we should recognize that we represent our Lord wherever we go. Loving the Lord's people and the blessings that come from this love provide joy and comfort to those who have invested in the lives of those following the pattern of godly living they were taught. With a deeper understanding of what God has done for us, we can respond appropriately to the challenges in our lives, ultimately benefiting others. My resources, faith, and love open doors for blessing and service to others, all for the glory of God.

Fellow believers are there, living and working in far and distant places, seeking souls for Jesus' sake. They are here, in my heart and mind, as I make intercession for them. They are there, where people watch, listen, and wonder if what they say is true. They are here in my prayers, as I ask God to help them and carry them through the difficulties and pressures they face. I ask the Lord of the harvest to, for His sake, give them grace to demonstrate the reality of the truth they impart, so that the love of God through them might reach open hearts.

I am here, for whatever reason God sees fit to get from me. I am here, with names and faces indelibly impressed on my mind. Who, with faith, went forth to places and people yet unknown. That divine love and forgiveness, through them, will be shown to others. In this way, though separated, I can share in the work they do. Knowing that in a coming day, those who sow, those who water, and the reapers too will look on with wondering eyes at the multitudes on high and find exceeding joy in the results of faith and the truth we did buy.