“I pray that the fellowship of your faith may become effective through the knowledge of every good thing which is in you for Christ’s sake.” (Philemon 1:6)
You can’t effectively use a tool if you don’t understand how it works or what it is capable of. You must know what the capabilities of the tool are to properly get the most out of it. I once had the exact right tool to remove grout, but I didn’t realize that I could use it for that purpose. My ignorance led to me using the wrong tools when the right equipment was already at my workbench.
Fellowship is another word for common shared work. When Christians work together, they have fellowship. You want to make the fellowship of the faith more effective? Start to understand the good things you are capable of for Christ’s sake. Stop being enamored with what other Christians can do and start pushing yourself to see what you can do. Make the fellowship effective by figuring out what you are capable of and then put your foot on the gas and do something. Add your strength to the fellowship of the faith!
Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites
Today’s Reading: Philemon 1-11
Questions to ask:
- How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
- What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
- How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
- What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
- How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?
This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul. If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision