Remind Me Again!

As Paul wrote his letters he admonished, exhorted, and encouraged his readers. And though we find his statements to be very bold at times, a great sense of loving patience is also very evident. In this regard he was a good teacher and servant of God. Paul had a genuine interest in the spiritual welfare of others.

Writing to the church at Philippi Paul stated…
“Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write THE SAME THINGS to you is NO TROUBLE TO ME and IS SAFE FOR YOU.” ( Philippians 3:1 ESV)

It didn’t bother Paul to repeat what was necessary for keeping others safe. This is understood in factories or on job sites and other places where safety is crucial, with safety procedures being reviewed over and over again on a regular basis to make sure that which is important is kept fresh in the mind. Reminders are good teachers and ensure our safety. Certainly there is a difference between nagging and reminding, but reminders are always beneficial for keeping us on track. And this is of inestimable value with regard to the salvation of our souls.

Peter made a similar statement when he wrote…
“(12) Therefore I INTEND ALWAYS TO REMIND YOU OF THESE QUALITIES, though you know them and are established in the truth that you have. (13) I THINK IT RIGHT, as long as I am in this body, TO STIR YOU UP BY WAY OF REMINDER,” ( 2 Peter 1:12-13 ESV)

Do you like adding chocolate syrup to milk? If the milk is allowed to sit for a while, the chocolate begins to sink to the bottom and isn’t quite as good. Though the chocolate is present, there is the need to STIR IT UP, making a change in the look and the taste of what is in the glass.

Perhaps we could think of our lives in a similar way. We have the knowledge of many godly principles, but too easily we get settled into routines and comfortable about life and there is the need to get those principles STIRRED UP so as to affect the way we look and help bring a rich godly flavor to our lives. This should happen as we worship. Through the hymns we sing we are reminded of the rich blessings that are ours and where our focus ought to be. We should be STIRRED to remembrance when we are involved in Bible study (both private and public) and when we hear the preaching of the Word.

Let us remain open to reminders. It is good to be reminded. There is great value in being reminded of that which should remain fresh in our minds. Even at times when we might feel we don’t need them we can appreciate their purpose of keeping our lives on track and safe. Having the reminders STIRRED UP will help in continuing to stir us into action to God’s glory and praise.

Have a great day WILLING TO LISTEN AGAIN!
Carl

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