INTRODUCTION

No doubt Paul spoke to the Lord about Hymenaeus and Alexander and their wickedness (1 Timothy 1:20Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme.
See All...; 2 Timothy 4:14Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works:
See All...), but he most likely expended his strength thanking God for believers like those in Rome (Romans 1:8First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.
See All...). All believers should thank God for those whose reputations have been carefully maintained. Throughout the world, people spoke of the faith of those in Rome. The Bible tells us that news of their obedience spread abroad unto all men (Romans 16:19For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.
See All...). Although Paul would commend them for their godly reputations, he knew who ultimately deserved the thanks. In like manner, believers today should put forth more strength thanking God for good reputations.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS

• (For children): Read why Paul was thankful for Philemon (Philemon 4-7); for the saints in the church at Colosse (Colossians 1:1-4 [1] Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timotheus our brother, [2] To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. [3] We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, [4] Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints,
  See All...). Name someone who lives for the Lord and for whom you are especially thankful.
• (For everyone): When is the last time you thanked God for the good reputations of certain believers? Do you spend too much time complaining about the carnal saints and too little time thanking God for those who bear a good testimony?
• Do you have a good reputation? How did you ultimately gain that reputation? Have you thanked God for it?

PRAYER NEEDS

• Thank God for the godly reputations of those you know.
• Ask God to protect these believers.

HYMN

COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS

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