Our reputation

As I reflected on Paul’s words concerning Philemon, I couldn’t help but think about myself.

Paul wrote,

I always thank my God when I mention you in my prayers, because I hear of your love for all the saints and the faith that you have in the Lord Jesus. (Philemon 4-5)

and again,

For I have great joy and encouragement from your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother. (7)

I don’t know about you, but I would like that to be my reputation among believers.

I want to be known for the faith I have in Jesus.

I want to be known for my love for our brothers and sisters in Christ.

I want people to be refreshed by me, receiving great joy and encouragement from my love.

That’s the reputation I would like to have. That’s how I would like to be remembered when God takes me home.

I’ve got a long way to go to be the Christian I should be. But by God’s grace I will get there.

And by God’s grace, so will you.

So let us draw near to Jesus each day, striving to become more like the One whose love and grace toward us is immeasurable and beyond all words.