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Daily Devotion

Philemon 1:6

I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective when you perceive all the good that we may do for Christ

The word ´prayer´ is mentioned again in this verse. What is Paul praying for? Paul is praying that Philemon may effectively share the faith with other believers. The word used for sharing is ´koinonia´ meaning ´communion or fellowship´. It is a word pregnant with meaning and it is deeper than just ordinary sharing. How does Philemon effectively share his faith? For Paul effective sharing of faith comes with presenting to people the good that Christ has done to us. People accept Christ when they see reflect more on the good things that Christ has done rather than focus on the challenges of life. Sharing the good that Christ has done and is still doing is the foundation of effective evangelism.

It is not effective evangelism when we preach about hell more than heaven. It is not effective evangelism when we preach about punishment more than love. It is not effective evangelism when we talk about sin or guilt more than grace. It is not effective evangelism when we focus on evil rather than love and forgiveness. This is what Paul is praying for to happen to Philemon. The testimony of our forgiven lives is the foundation of effective evangelism. Two takeaways for today: 1. Sharing our faith with others is our call. 2. Effective sharing happens when we testify the good that Christ has done in our lives
The Rev Canon Dr. I.S Gusha

The Rev Canon Dr Ishanesu Sextus Gusha

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