Verse of the Day 8/28

Philemon 5-6 because I hear of your love and of the faith that you have toward the Lord Jesus and for all the saints, ⁶ and I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective for the full knowledge of every good thing that is in us for the sake of Christ. English Standard Version (ESV)

As I read this passage in my devotions this morning I couldn't help but think of the baptism that will be taking place this afternoon, where 100 people from our church will be baptized at a local lake.  Those that are being baptized are making a profession of their faith and also stating that they will live for the One that gave His life for theirs.  Paul's letter to Philemon called for him to share his faith and that he may become effective in doing so.

The "love" mentioned here is not only the love for God, it is a love that is shown towards Jesus that involves the will, choice, sacrifice and humility for all "the saints".  This involves the community of believers, sharing life with each other in faith to the glory of God.

Many of us will participate in a worship service today  which will primarily be vertical, showing our praise and worship to God.  But there should be a horizontal aspect as well in any service but especially in the celebration of baptism.  They are now part of the family of God,  Do you know them?  How can you serve them?  How can you encourage them in their faith and life?  This is part of our calling and it should be made a part of theirs as well.

As we observe such a service, such a ceremony, we should be praying for them, that God would work in them abundantly for His glory, now and forever.

Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, ²¹ to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.  English Standard Version (ESV

--   In Christ,  Mike    Folllow the Verse of the Day blog at http://mikesvotd.blogspot.com  Ephesians 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins,  in accordance with the riches of God's grace.  NIV    

Philemon 5-7The Message (MSG)

^4-7 Every time your name comes up in my prayers, I say, "Oh, thank you, God!" I keep hearing of the love and faith you have for the Master Jesus, which brims over to other believers. And I keep praying that this faith we hold in common keeps showing up in the good things we do, and that people recognize Christ in all of it. Friend, you have no idea how good your love makes me feel, doubly so when I see your hospitality to fellow believers.