ROMANS 1:12 MUTUAL FAITH It is plain to see the lives of believers are not only beneficial to each in that we have the fellowship of family, but the gift of each is needed. One ministers in a God-given way to others, and they minister to that one in return. God had gifted Paul to be an apostle, a teacher of the Gentiles so the believers in Rome would have been built up in their faith and established in the truth of God by him. They would have shown him hospitality, mercy and comfort by those who were gifted to serve him.
In the assemblies of God's people today the gifts that have been given by divine Persons makes it possible for the needs of the saints to be met, and the testimony to the community maintained. There is built into our new nature a desire for the welfare of God's people. It gives us joy when we see them strong in faith and acting in grace toward each other. Interaction in the Christian life with other believers has the effect of giving us joy at the moment. As each day progresses, that same mutual faith is a safeguard for us when the temptations arise. We know the actions and decisions I make will affect my brothers and sisters either in a positive or a negative way. In times of temptation that mutual faith serves to help us maintain purity of life because of who I am linked with by the faith of us both.
Our public testimony in the Gospel is challenged and promoted by this mutual faith we share. Those who pray, want to know how their prayers are answered. Those who labor, want to know if there are those who pray. The checks and balances of mutual faith are truly a significant part of our Christian testimony.
It is not uncommon to hear one say, "How is it going?" Or maybe to hear back in reply, "What are you doing?" These are not words of interference, Rather the sharing of common experience, As we share mutual faith in each daily occurrence In this life of faith, we are living.
Sometimes we ask, "How do you feel?" Another might say, "Have you begun to heal?" It is only right to express our compassion, There is no desire to elicit a confession,
There is a way to give thoughts and expression So they know our interest is real.
One might ask another, "Where are you reading?" The other might answer, "This truth I am heeding!" To share thoughts of God's Word is right, Often, we pass on to another some light, That helps them keep strong in the fight - And we are thankful for them interceding.
So, one might say, "Your gift you are faithfully using. And the reply comes, "I sincerely thank you for choosing To give me help in this way, It keeps me from going astray, That is just what I needed today, That my testimony of faith in Christ I won't be losing."
"I thank Thee, O God my Father, for Thy people who care for and strengthen each other in the faith. May I always be ready to listen to them when they speak to correct me. And may I always be ready to help them when I should. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen."