We Give Thanks To God...When We Pray For You!

“We always give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, since we heard about your faith in Christ Jesus and the love that you have for all the saints.” Colossians 1:3-4 NET

These two verses, although concise, prompt us to consider a significant question: Is there enough spiritual depth in them to support a thorough and meaningful biblical study? Indeed, the answer is a resounding yes! The Word of God is a limitless reservoir, overflowing with profound insights and wisdom that nourish our growth in the Lord.

Let us take a closer look at Paul’s statement: “We always give thanks.” The use of the plural pronoun “we” is noteworthy; it indicates that Paul is not merely a solitary “Lone Ranger” Christian. Instead, he values and actively includes a community in his epistles. Previously, we observed that he at least includes Timothy in this correspondence, and as we progress through the letter, we will undoubtedly encounter others who share this journey with him. This inclusion enriches the message and reflects the interconnected nature of Paul’s and our faith.

As Paul continues, he specifies, “We always give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you.” Here, he is setting the stage for an earnest acknowledgment of the Colossian believers to whom he is writing. Let’s explore the phrase “We always give thanks” a bit further. The Greek term for “give thanks” is (eucharisteō), which is a beautiful composition of two significant components: “eu,” a prefix that means ‘you’; and “charis,” which translates to “grace” and has something to do with the good grace of Almighty God. Therefore, the act of giving thanks—“eucharisteō”—carries a rich connotation, inviting us to recognize and express heartfelt gratitude for the extraordinary grace God bestows on us in all things.

The term “eucharisteō,” deriving from the Greek word for ‘to give thanks,’ serves as the foundation for the word ‘eucharist.’ This sacred sacrament is often called communion or the Lord’s supper. It epitomizes a profound expression of gratitude and reverence for the unparalleled sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Within the Christian faith, the Eucharist is celebrated with deep significance; it is known as the Lord’s Supper in many Protestant denominations, while in the Catholic Church, it is honored as the Mass, the pinnacle of Christian worship.

Instituted at the Last Supper, a poignant and transformative meal shared between Jesus and His disciples, the Eucharist carries profound meaning. It functions not only as a memorial to Christ’s ultimate sacrifice on the cross but also as a symbol of the intimate connection and unity among believers. The act of breaking bread and sharing wine is rich with symbolism, reflecting the body and blood of Christ, which serve as spiritual sustenance for the soul.

Through this sacred rite, Christians are reminded of the tremendous gift of salvation afforded by Christ’s atoning death. The Eucharist becomes a testament to God’s ‘good grace,’ illuminating the depth of His mercy in offering His only unique Son as a sacrifice for our sins. In partaking of the Eucharist, believers routinely experience a profound sense of communal bond and spiritual nourishment, transcending the physical act to foster a deeper relationship with Christ and one another, rooted in faith, gratitude, and love.

When we pause to contemplate the overwhelming grace of God that permeates our lives, we find that gratitude flows naturally from our hearts. The combination of “eu” and “charis” reminds us that our thanksgiving is motivated by recognizing the good grace of Almighty God that surrounds us. We can extend this gratitude to our Brothers and Sisters in Christ as well. As we reflect on those who worship alongside us, we can consider the evidence of God’s grace at work in their lives, prompting us to be thankful not just for our own experiences, but also for theirs.

Moreover, God’s grace extends beyond our initial salvation; it plays a transformative role in shaping our character and actions. In Titus 2:11-13, we read, “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all people. It trains us to reject godless ways and worldly desires and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, as we wait for the happy fulfillment of our hope in the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.” This passage elegantly captures the dual function of grace: it is both a gift of salvation and a guiding force, teaching us how to live righteously in our daily lives.

Thus, we have countless reasons to express our gratitude for the ‘good grace’ of our Almighty God. Each act of acknowledgment deepens our appreciation for His unfathomable favor in our lives while enhancing our bonds within the community of believers, reminding us that we are all part of a larger story illuminated by His grace.

In the opening chapter of Colossians, we come across the poignant declaration, “We always give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” This statement resonates deeply, particularly in its reference to God as “the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” There are two compelling angles to explore in understanding Paul’s intention here. On the one hand, Paul expresses gratitude to God, whom we typically identify as God the Father. Yet the phrasing invites a more nuanced interpretation: Paul writes, “we give thanks to God, and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,” suggesting a duality that warrants further consideration.

It’s grammatically and theologically insightful to consider that Paul may be renaming God: “we give thanks to God, who is the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” This interpretation opens up a richer understanding of the divine relationship. When Paul expresses, “we give thanks to God,” he might also be alluding to Jesus Himself, which is captivating. Thus, we can discern a layered expression of gratitude: “We give thanks to God”—meaning Jesus—“and to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,”—undoubtedly referring to the Heavenly Father. This perspective offers a multifaceted appreciation that goes beyond mere acknowledgment; it invites us to reflect on the profound interconnectedness of the Father and the Son within divine grace.

So we might articulate our thanks as follows: “Thank you, Jesus, for your boundless grace and mercy. Thank you for the vibrant community of believers flourishing in your abundant love, and for our hearts which are overflowing with gratitude.” Our expressions of gratitude extend to both persons in the divine relationship—Jesus, who embodies the love and grace of God, and God the Father, who has gifted us with His beloved Son.

Furthermore, we see a beautiful model of gratitude in Jesus Himself. He consistently demonstrated a posture of thankfulness towards His Heavenly Father. In a moment of intimate prayer, He lifted His gaze to the heavens and said, “Father, I thank you that you have listened to me. I knew that you always listen to me, but I said this for the sake of the crowd standing around here, that they may believe that you sent me” (John 11:41b-42). This passage vividly illustrates Jesus’ deep connection with His Father and the importance of openly expressing His gratitude.

Ultimately, recognizing to whom we are thankful holds great significance. Thankfulness is not merely a pleasant practice—it involves intentionally directing our gratitude toward the appropriate person within the Godhead: our Heavenly Father, who graciously provided us the incomparable gift of His Son, Jesus Christ. This connection is powerfully encapsulated in John 3:16, where we read, “For this is the way God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.”

In summary, while cultivating a spirit of thankfulness is essential, it is equally important to ensure that our gratitude is directed toward the rightful sources within the divine relationship—acknowledging both our Heavenly Father and His Son, who together invite us into a transformative experience of love, grace, and eternal life.

It is customary for the Apostle Paul to commence his letters with a rich, heartfelt paragraph of thanksgiving. This practice not only emphasizes the biblical importance of gratitude but also reveals his deeply rooted character of thankfulness. Paul is acutely aware that he cannot truly reflect on God’s boundless grace without bursting into exuberant appreciation, underscoring its spiritual significance. In his letters, he articulates this gratitude in profound and impactful ways:

• Romans 1:8: “First of all, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is proclaimed throughout the whole world.” In this opening, Paul captures the essence of the Roman believers’ faith, which resonates far and wide, transforming lives and communities, and expressing his genuine admiration for their unwavering witness.
• 1 Corinthians 1:4: “I always thank my God for you because of the grace of God that was given to you in Christ Jesus.” This statement serves as a poignant reminder of the profound transformation that grace instills, shaping their identities into something beautiful and divine.
• Philippians 1:3: “I thank my God every time I remember you.” With this simple yet powerful expression, Paul conveys the warmth of his memories and the joy that the believers in Philippi sparked in his heart, illustrating the deep, personal connections forged through shared faith.
• 1 Thessalonians 1:2: “We thank God always for all of you as we mention you constantly in our prayers.” This declaration highlights the importance of community and supports the notion that prayer binds believers together in an unbreakable tapestry of love and mutual upliftment.
• 2 Thessalonians 1:3: “We ought to thank God always for you, brothers and sisters, and rightly so, because your faith flourishes more and more, and the love of each one of you all for one another is ever greater.” Here, Paul celebrates the vibrant growth of faith and love among the Thessalonians, painting a picture of a thriving faith community that embodies the heart of Christ.
• 2 Timothy 1:3: “I am thankful to God, whom I serve, as my ancestors did, when I remember you in my prayers constantly night and day.” In this heartfelt statement, Paul links his own heritage of faith to the present, emphasizing the continuity of God’s work across generations and his personal investment in Timothy’s spiritual journey.
• Philemon 4: “I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers.” This brief yet meaningful acknowledgment signifies Paul’s deep appreciation for Philemon, underscoring the profound importance of individual relationships within the body of Christ.

Paul stands as a brilliant example of a grateful spirit, one who recognizes God’s work not only in his own life but also in the lives of others around him. However, two glaring omissions in his practice of thanksgiving warrant attention: his letters to the Galatians and the Corinthians.

In the case of the Galatians, he omits a thanksgiving paragraph, likely because his heart is troubled by their spiritual condition. He expresses his astonishment with pointed clarity: “I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are following a different gospel—not that there really is another gospel, but there are some who are disturbing you and wanting to distort the gospel of Christ” (Galatians 1:6-7). This stark omission is not only telling of his concerns but also signals significant urgency about the health of their faith.

Similarly, in 2 Corinthians, any hint of a thanksgiving paragraph is conspicuously absent. Unlike his earlier correspondence with 1 Corinthians, where his gratitude flowed freely, Paul refrains from expressing thankfulness here because he is embroiled in conflict. Some members of the Corinthian church have turned against him, hurling accusations of deceit and presenting him as an unimpressive leader. In this tumultuous letter, he confronts a group of false teachers—sarcastically dubbed “super-apostles” (2 Corinthians 11:5, 12:11)—who have sown discord within the church and questioned his authority.

These adversaries, likely influential Jewish teachers (2 Corinthians 11:22), engage in a relentless assault on Paul’s character and credentials, casting doubt on his speaking weaknesses while challenging his apostolic authority. Such actions reveal a deep-seated conflict rooted in the Corinthians’ susceptibility to outsiders claiming superior wisdom, leading to a tragic erosion of Paul’s pastoral influence and prompting doubts about his integrity—even as his travel plans change, they criticize him as “all bark and no bite.”

Why, then, am I meticulously examining Paul’s thanksgiving practices? He poignantly articulates, “We always give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you.” This statement illuminates the profound wisdom embedded in gratitude, reminding us that thanksgiving holds immeasurable value in our lives. In Romans 1, beginning at verse 18, Paul elucidates a sobering downward spiral into sin, culminating in God allowing those who persist in rebellion to be ensnared by a depraved mind. At the root of this tragic descent? A pervasive lack of gratitude. Paul writes, “For although they knew God, they did not glorify him as God or give him thanks, but they became futile in their thoughts, and their senseless hearts were darkened” (Romans 1:21).

In Christian circles today, the practice of gratitude is often downplayed, yet we must recognize its central importance in nurturing a healthy spiritual life. We are called to cultivate an attitude of thankfulness toward God for all He has done, trusting Him even when life’s outcomes remain unclear or when our emotions fail to align with our faith. We owe Him our heartfelt gratitude for His unmerited grace—today and every day—honoring Him for who He is and for the wondrous deeds He has accomplished on our behalf.

Let’s delve deeper into an essential and transformative aspect of our spiritual journey: prayer. The Apostle Paul profoundly states, “We always give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you.” This phrase introduces a present participle, “when we pray for you,” which signals the continuous, active nature of prayer in our lives. The Greek term προσεύχομαι (proseuchomai) encapsulates this idea, composed of two significant parts: ‘pros,’ which means “towards” or “exchange,” and ‘euxomai,’ translating to “to wish” or “to beseech”. Together, these words beautifully illustrate the concept of engaging in a heartfelt exchange of our human desires—our thoughts, worries, and hopes—for His divine will, as He imparts faith through His gentle guidance and transformative presence—often referred to as “divine persuasion.”

In this light, the act of prayer (proseuchomai) is intricately woven with the notion of (pístis) or “faith,” throughout the New Testament. It is within the sacred space of prayer that we find ourselves in a profound, intimate dialogue with our Almighty God. Hebrews 4:16 beautifully encapsulates this privilege: “Therefore let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and find grace whenever we need help.” When we pray, we do not merely speak to an abstract idea of God; we come before our Heavenly Father in the name of Jesus, engaging in a ‘pros’ relationship—face-to-face—and ‘euxomai’ by offering our deepest needs, yearnings, longings, and desires. This word for prayer is magnificent—a heartfelt conversation with the Creator of the universe.

We are granted the extraordinary privilege of conversing with our Creator at any time, whether enveloped in the tranquil stillness of an early morning or amidst the bustling chaos of evening. The Apostle Paul exemplifies this commitment to prayer, urging us to “pray without ceasing” as articulated in 1 Thessalonians 5:17. This directive does not suggest that Paul was engaged in non-stop prayer around the clock; he had to eat, sleep, and interact with the world around him just like each of us. However, he embraced a disciplined approach, seizing every available opportunity to pray—whenever individuals or specific situations came to mind, or when prompted by the Holy Spirit. He lifted the believers in Colossae with unwavering regularity, showing the beauty of his faithful, consistent commitment to their well-being through prayer.

Our God, in His omniscience and omnipresence, creates an open invitation for us to converse with Him anytime and anywhere—a source of immense comfort and reassurance. He embodies both strength and kindness, establishing a safe and nurturing environment for our heartfelt interactions. Jesus elucidates this truth in Matthew 7:7-8, declaring, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” This profound promise encourages us to approach God with confidence in our prayers, knowing that He hears us and responds to our sincere petitions with love, inviting us into a dynamic and enriching relationship through prayer.

Throughout both the Old and New Testaments, the act of setting aside specific times for prayer emerges as a profound spiritual practice that shapes the lives of devoted believers.

• Take Daniel, for instance, whose unwavering commitment to prayer shines through in times of dire crisis. Confronted with a perilous decree forbidding prayer to anyone but the king, he courageously retreated to his home. In the solitude of his upper room, with its windows open wide in the direction of Jerusalem—a symbolic act of worship and longing toward the land of his ancestors—Daniel knelt three times each day, pouring forth prayers and heartfelt thanks to his God. “Three times daily, he was kneeling and offering prayers and thanks to his God just as he had been accustomed to do previously” (Daniel 6:10). This steadfast routine, even in the face of potential peril, illustrates not just faith but a deep-rooted dedication to seeking divine connection amidst the turmoil of life.
• Similarly, in the New Testament, the early apostles exemplified the importance of prayer in their mission. Before Peter and John performed the miraculous healing of a lame man at the temple’s beautiful gate, they prayed there. The scripture illuminates this moment: “Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time for prayer, at three o’clock in the afternoon” (Acts 3:1). This intentional habit of prayer not only fortified their spirits but underscored the integral role of prayer as a foundation for their ministry.
• Consider Cornelius, a centurion renowned for his piety, whose prayer life stands as a testament to the power of seeking God. He vividly recounted an extraordinary encounter: “Four days ago at this very hour, at three o’clock in the afternoon, I was praying in my house, and suddenly a man in shining clothing stood before me, and said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer has been heard, and your acts of charity have been remembered before God” (Acts 10:30-31). Cornelius’s purposeful prayer life invited divine intervention, showcasing the profound impact that prayer had on his spiritual journey.

Have you ever paused to consider the significance of carving out regular time for prayer in your own life? Jesus encourages this by teaching us about the ‘prayer closet.’“But whenever you pray, go into your inner room, close the door, and pray to your Father in secret. And your Father, who sees in secret, will reward you.” (Matthew 6:6) The Greek term ‘tameion’ evokes images of a secluded inner room—a cherished sanctuary devoid of distractions, perfect for intimate conversations with God. Imagine a quiet corner of your home—perhaps a cozy closet, a minimalist nook, or a tranquil bedroom—where you can retreat from the world and immerse yourself in heartfelt dialogue with your Creator. This sacred space becomes a refuge, allowing for a consistent, focused prayer life that nurtures both personal growth and spiritual connection.

Paul’s epistles further illustrate the deep connection between prayer and thanksgiving, urging believers to intercede not only for themselves but also for one another. He writes, “We always give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you.” The rich significance of the word ‘for’ is a Greek preposition ‘peri’ which conveys a sense of surrounding care, which means ‘all the way around,’ like a ‘perimeter’ or the distance all around a circle, an encompassing prayer that considers the entirety of each person’s life journey, inclusive of their yesterdays, todays, and tomorrows. It paints a beautiful picture of community and intercession, in which Paul acknowledges the struggles and triumphs of the believers in Colossae, signifying their shared spiritual journey.

Through Paul’s own prayer life, gratitude emerges as an essential thread woven into each plea. “First of all, then, I urge that requests, prayers, intercessions, and thanks be offered on behalf of all people, even for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. Such prayer for all is good and welcomed before God our Savior, since he wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:1-4). The scriptures consistently intertwine prayer and gratitude, offering a profound reminder. By incorporating thanksgiving into your conversations with God, you enrich your prayer life and cultivate a heart that honors His many blessings. Failing to express gratitude can lead to overlooking the innumerable good things that surround us, creating a disconnect in our relationship with God. In recognizing the depth of His grace and our thankfulness, we find renewed strength and purpose in our spiritual journey.

As we review Paul’s circumstances, it is crucial to grasp the context in which he wrote his letter to the Colossians. Paul finds himself imprisoned, enduring house arrest in a small, rented room in Rome, a setting that must feel both confining and isolating. Despite this physical limitation, he has Timothy—a trusted companion and fellow worker—close by, offering both companionship and assistance as Paul immerses himself in this vital correspondence. Although Paul has formed personal relationships with a select few individuals connected to the church in Colossae—namely Onesimus, the runaway slave who has embraced faith; Philemon, Onesimus’s former master and a fellow believer; and Epaphras, likely the pastor of the burgeoning congregation in Colossae—he has not had the pleasure of meeting the wider assembly of believers face-to-face. Nevertheless, he is deeply moved by their situation and fervently prays for their spiritual growth and well-being in Christ Jesus.

In examining verse 4, where he writes, “...since we heard about your faith in Christ Jesus,” we observe the significance of the word ‘heard.’ This term comes from the Greek ‘akouō,’ which captures the essence of ‘to listen with the ear.’ From this root, we derive the English word ‘acoustics,’ which pertains to the interplay of voice or sound within an environment. Consider, for example, a grand lecture hall with finely tuned acoustics that allows a speaker’s voice to resonate and reach every listener clearly. In a similar vein, Paul shares that he has heard reports about the Colossians’ faith, communicated to him clearly and adeptly by various people he knows.

To delve deeper, let us consider the concept of ‘faith’: Paul uses the Greek word ‘pistis,’ which connotes not just belief but also a profound trust grounded in conviction. This word is intrinsically linked to the verb ‘pisteuo,’ which translates to placing faith or trust in someone. When we exercise faith, we embark on a journey of confidence, affirming the truth in what that individual conveys. If we dig even further, we uncover that ‘pisteuo’ has its roots in the verb ‘peitho,’ which encompasses the ideas of persuasion, convincing, and influence.

When we place our faith in Jesus, recognizing Him as the Son of God and the ultimate author of our salvation, how do we determine the authenticity of this belief? The Bible serves as our guiding light, a source of inspiration and persuasion that shapes our understanding and conviction. Paul articulates this idea beautifully in Romans 10:17, stating, “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” Our faith finds its deepest roots in biblical persuasion; we are molded and convinced by God’s Word that Jesus is indeed our Savior.

Choosing to trust in Jesus means acknowledging that His words are foundational truths. We come to know Him intimately through the scriptures, which instill in us a steadfast assurance that He is trustworthy and incapable of lies or deception. This process resonates with the concept of ‘pisteuo’—to believe fervently. Yet the notion of ‘peitho’ speaks to the firm persuasion we experience: we reach a point where doubt dissipates, and we understand that the Savior resides within us, inspiring us to glorify and celebrate His name. As transformed individuals emerging from death to life, we can confidently affirm our commitment to living out our faith in Jesus.

This unwavering trust is why Paul could boldly proclaim in 2 Timothy 1:11-12, “For this gospel I was appointed a preacher and apostle and teacher. Because of this, in fact, I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, because I know the one in whom my faith is set and I am convinced that he can protect what has been entrusted to me until that day.” In these words, Paul encapsulates not only his passion for the gospel but also the rock-solid foundation of faith that sustains him, even amidst the trials and tribulations of imprisonment.

Having grown up with the expression “all my eggs are in one basket,” I have come to appreciate its deeper implications, particularly in light of Paul’s teachings. He asserts a resolute belief that there exists no “Plan B” or alternative means of salvation from the inherent struggles and suffering of the human condition. Paul is unequivocally convinced that Christ Jesus stands alone as the ultimate hope for all of humanity.

The designation ‘Christ’ underscores His profound role as God’s anointed one, specifically selected and set apart to carry out a divine mission of redemption and restoration for humanity. In contrast, the name ‘Jesus’ embodies the miraculous truth of the Incarnation, the moment when God humbled Himself to take on human form, existing fully as both God and man. This dual nature allowed Him to experience the full range of human trials and tribulations, providing a unique perspective on human suffering and joy. His sacrificial death at Calvary transcends mere historical significance; it stands as the pinnacle of divine love and grace, designed to rescue our souls from the devastating clutches of sin, which are starkly symbolized by the ominous specter of the Devil’s Hell. In this theological context, the Apostle Paul highlights that faith in Christ Jesus is not simply a tenet, principle, or belief system generally accepted as true by those affiliated with a religious organization. Rather, Jesus emerges as a singular, life-altering force, capable of offering real salvation and reconciliation with God, illuminating the path toward eternal hope and purpose.

As articulated in Colossians 1:4: “Since we heard about your faith in Christ Jesus and the love that you have for all the saints,” the Greek term for love, ‘agapē,’ is intentionally chosen. This term resonates powerfully throughout the New Testament, illustrating God’s active, selfless love for His Son and His people, and the corresponding love His followers are called to express toward God, one another, and even their adversaries. ‘Agapē’ encapsulates a deep, passionate love that resides within true believers in Christ, serving as an unmistakable hallmark of their identity as His followers. Jesus commands us, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another” (John 13:34-35).

While English provides a single word—‘love’—to convey a vast array of emotions, the Greek language offers four distinct terms that elucidate the multifaceted nature of love. ‘Agapē’ represents the highest form of love: unconditional, selfless, and sacrificial, particularly exemplifying God’s steadfast love for humanity. ‘Eros’ denotes passionate, romantic, or sexual love, characterized by an intense emotional longing and desire. ‘Philéo’ conveys tender affection, fondness, and brotherly friendship, symbolizing heartfelt emotional connections. Finally, ‘storgē’ refers to natural, instinctual, and familial love—the deep-rooted affection between parents and children, siblings, or extended kin. This rich Greek vocabulary affords clarity and precision in expressing love’s various dimensions, something that often eludes us in English.

When we examine ‘agapē’ in comparison to typical human love, we discover a radical form of unconditional love that boldly asserts, “I will give to meet your needs, irrespective of your response.” It fosters selfless giving that seeks no acknowledgment or reciprocation, focusing entirely on the act of love itself. Notably, Paul does not qualify his gratitude by asserting, “We always give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, since we heard about your faith in Christ Jesus and the love that you have for some of the saints,” selecting favorites based on outward displays of piety or generosity. Instead, he praises the community for its impartiality, embracing all within its circle with genuine love. This inclusivity reflects the harmony, unity, and shared purpose that characterized the early Churches, as they grew together in faith and love.

Moreover, Paul carefully delineates the relationship between faith and love, emphasizing that faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and love for all the saints should go hand in hand. It is imperative not to reverse this order: faith is intended to reach up toward God, while love should flow outward toward fellow believers. This does not imply a deficiency in love for God; rather, it underscores that our faith must remain firmly anchored in the Lord Jesus Christ, our steadfast foundation, who will never fail us. The exhortation is crystal clear: extend love to our brothers and sisters in Christ without placing the weight of our faith upon them, as we are all fallible beings capable of disappointment. Instead, we place our complete trust in Christ alone, who stands as our unwavering cornerstone, and then, buoyed by His infinite love, extend that love generously to others.

1 Corinthians 13 beautifully articulates what it means to embody love within the community of faith, painting a vivid picture of love as patient, kind, and enduring. “Love is patient, love is kind, it is not envious. Love does not brag; it is not puffed up. It is neither rude nor self-serving, nor easily angered or resentful. It is not glad about injustice, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends.” (1 Corinthians 13:4-8a)

In this heartfelt epistle, we witness Paul engaging in acts of thanksgiving, persistent prayer, and palpable love for the community.

It is a profound text filled with rich insights that resonate with the essence of Christian fellowship and faith, inspiring us to contribute to a legacy of love that reflects Christ’s heart for others.

Stephen Barnett