Beyond the Gospels: Philemon

Today’s Reading: Philemon 1-7
(Click on the link to read today’s verses.)

Older kids have often asked the question, “Mrs. Stacy, can you be a Christian on an island all by yourself?” Most often they are looking for an excuse to not be in fellowship with other believers… not come to church. I smile and answer, “No!” I don’t really mean it in that way. Yes, you can be a believer on an island by yourself. But, we are not on an island, and rarely by ourselves.

We live in community with each other. This is who God is. A perfect community of Father, Son, and Spirit. He calls us to live in community: church, family, and friendship. Paul talks about his prayer for effective partnership. Partnerships grounded in Christ deepen our understanding of who God is and who we are. Do you have a faith partner? Someone who continually encourages you to grow in Christ? If not, begin today asking God to provide this kind of relationship in your life.