For what thanksgiving can we render to God for you, for all the joy which we feel for your sake before our God, praying earnestly night and day that we may see you face to face and supply what is lacking in your faith? (1 Thessalonians 3:9-10)
The author of the Bible’s book of Thessalonians makes a bold claim here, namely that in a person to person encounter he may provide “what is lacking” in their faith. First, it takes keen discernment to identify incomplete faith in another. Second, it takes thorough self-knowledge to believe one possesses what another lacks in faith. Third, it takes both courage and humility to offer a remedy for completion of faith in another out of one’s own resources.
Maybe I need to think along these lines. I do have a storehouse of faith, thanks to the grace of God. I can share from that storehouse at any time. Indeed, I am invited, if not commanded, to do so. It may be that others’ needs may be met through my sharing or, God forbid, may not be met through my withholding.
Perhaps I am undervaluing the treasures of faith entrusted to me. I demonstrate the proper value of faith to me every time I share it.
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