Encouraged Faith!

When we read through Acts and take note of the life of Paul and read the letters he wrote to individuals and churches, there is no doubt he was a man of great faith. Associated with that faith was his knowledge of the truth of God, a knowledge that God would be true to His promises, and that Paul was also a man of prayer. (i.e. Romans 1:10) However, is that all that encouraged the steadfastness of his faith?

Note a desire Paul expressed in his letter to the church a Rome.
"(11) For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you -- (12) that is, THAT WE MAY BE MUTUALLY ENCOURAGED BY EACH OTHER'S FAITH, both YOURS AND MINE." ( Romans 1:11-12 ESV)

Paul's faith was encouraged by the faith of others. The coming together of people of faith brought about a MUTUAL BLESSING. Paul looked forward to that opportunity with his brethren at Rome.

Though I would never place myself on the same level as an Apostle of Jesus Christ or one of the prophets of God, I am still looked to as a teacher. I am looked to as an example. I am looked to as one who ought to be strong in the faith. All of this I must take very seriously. (note James's caution in James 3:1) I even had someone drop by the church office early yesterday morning who wanted to know where something was stated in the Scriptures, because (as they put it) they knew I would know.

Within the regularly scheduled Bible studies and worship assemblies of our congregation, my brothers and sisters in Christ encourage my faith as I encourage theirs. It is very much a MUTUAL THING! I have the same need and rejoice in this MUTUAL BLESSING. Regardless of our age, amount of knowledge, or even numbers of years having been a Christian, we can still MUTUALLY ENCOURAGE each other's faith.

The time spent within the fellowship of the church is important time for everyone. There is something to gain for each one of us. May we each continue to be the recipients of that MUTUAL BLESSING that can only come in the gathering together of people of faith in God's promises through Christ.

Have a great day FINDING FURTHERMENT OF FAITH IN FELLOWSHIP!
Carl

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