it. He was so strong concerning this that he says, “God is my witness . . . I make mention of you always in my prayers” (v. 9). Are we this regu lar in our remembrance of others? When I lived on the East Coast, there were a number of churches known for different things. Some were marked for their great stained- glass windows, outstanding architec ture, great choirs, and even church suppers. Paul’s church, however, was noted for its faith. It was spoken of throughout the whole world. This as sembly in Rome loved the Lord Jesus, not just in theory, but also in ac tuality. Their praises had spread abroad. They were a great mission ary church. Many went out from it to proclaim the unsearchable riches of Christ. We have class distinctions today with a financial caste system. Paul wasn’t interested in this. He was interested in people who gave to the service of the Lord, thereby ex tending the Gospel. Without ceasing, the Apostle made mention of these friends in prayer. There was no interruption in dedi cation. Throughout the day, he was in the spirit of prayer. Whenever an opportunity presented itself, Paul never neglected to pray for the saints. This should be our practice, too. This is the way the Apostle was united together with his loved ones at the throne of grace. There was tremendous fellowship. There's a two-fold nature to prayer. At times we do the asking; at other times God leads us to be the answer to prayers ourselves. Prayer, you see, becomes a real and holy commerce, where together we meet the Saviour with our burdens. One of the reasons we here at the Biola radio like to hear from you is that it makes pos sible a personal dimension between us. Last summer I met some people who listen to “The Biola Hour” who said, “We hope you’ll come to our 10
home when you get to Southern Cali fornia.” Last night it was my privi lege to do this. No longer are they just names; they’re friends and fel low-believers. There’s a certain sense in which I can now pray for them as I’ve never done before. Paul says, “I remember you, I make mention of you.” He was very definite as to whom he had in mind. You pray that God will give us the right words to say, the urgent message to deliver, so that others may receive the truth of eternal life. The groups in the Christian era, lay ing most stress on prophetic study, have produced the saintliest men. Keep the home turned toward heav en, let it face the Father’s house. It’s a good thing to have money, but in getting it, let’s make sure we don’t lose the things money can’t buy. God wants you to live for Him in the exact circle where He has put you. FAITH is VISION plus VALOR.
Profesor Joseph Wong is Christian Education Director at the Arizona Bible College.
Made with FlippingBook Online newsletter