Thank You Notes - Part 1 "Thank You for Your Faith"

            I am thankful that so many people have placed their faith in God in ways that have positively impacted my life. These examples are found in Scripture, church history, as well as those who have been a part of my personal life. I have been encouraged greatly by observing the faith of others. I pray that others are encouraged by mine.

            We all can think of people who have displayed great faith. Some of those people are no longer with us, but many are still available to receive our thanks. During this season of thanksgiving, I believe that it is appropriate to focus our attention of giving thanks where it is due. As you read this post and consider the passages of Scripture, ask God to bring to mind those who have displayed faith in such a way that has positively impacted your life. It may be time to say thank you for your faith.

            Paul the Apostle is an example of how to say thank you in this way. He often began his letters with a note of thanks and appreciation. Here, we will consider his words to the church in Rome (Romans 1:8-15). A simple reading of the text prompts two important questions. First, we may ask why be thankful for the faith of others? We are to be thankful for the faith of others because their faith encourages ours (v. 11-12). The faith of others also provides a context to reach our loved ones for Christ (v. 13-15).

            A second question is, how do we grow world famous faith? In our text, Paul states that the faith of the Romans is talked about throughout the world. To answer this question, many passages of Scripture may be observed. Growing world famous faith begins with hearing the words of Christ (Romans 10:17). The faith that comes from hearing is then applied to our lives and increased through the obedience of reverent fear (Hebrews 11:7). This often requires the difficult task of embracing grief (James 1). All of this is made possible by living under the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8 / 2:38-39). When individuals as well as churches apply these truths, their faith will be worth sharing, becoming a source of encouragement and strength to others.

            After observing these passages of Scripture, many points of application may be acted upon. My challenge to you it to strengthen the faith of your family through a thank you note. You can simple write members of your family notes thanking them for their example of living in faith. Be creative and have fun. You may even consider thanking someone for their rebound from doubt and disbelief. Maybe you know someone who has journeyed through doubt and rejection similar to that of Peter in Luke 22:31-34.      

            Finally, I pray that our church becomes a place of world famous faith. This may happen through times of difficulty and struggle. However, with the church of Smyrna (Revelation 2:8-11) as our example may we too speak truth in the midst trouble. May the Lord continue to build and encourage your faith in Him.