Letters to Be Sent

“By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose, I have written briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God wherein ye stand.�?BR>�?1 Peter 5:12

The flag waved in the breeze high above the Post Office. The narrow driveway that ran parallel to the building was constantly busy as car after car gave up its bulky cargo. I pulled up for my turn to feed the big blue box a pile of cards and letters, feeling confident that my mail would soon be on its way to deliver a word of encouragement or inspiration to its recipients.

Most of us enjoy receiving cards or notes through the mail. A letter from a friend, or a note of thanks for something we have done, just has a way of brightening even a cloudy day. Many times in my life, a card brought joy as I felt God's love in the words of the sender. Cards and letters can be a great source of encouragement.

What would the world have been like if Paul had decided not to send any letters to the churches, perhaps thinking that his letters would not really help anyone? It is safe to say that many people, including most of us, would have missed out on the immense spiritual strength and encouragement found in Paul's letters. Ministers and pastors would not have received instructions on how to deal with situations that arise in congregations, such as God's formula for spiritual correction. The Early Church might not have had such a clear understanding of Christian unity, and perhaps thousands would not have found salvation. Many would have been affected if Paul, or any of the other Bible authors, had not sent their letters or shared with others the messages God laid on their hearts.

We may never write a great letter that will change the world, but even a small note of love and concern can bless, and maybe even change a life, if God is behind it. Are we doing what God has placed upon our hearts to do? Have we sent a note to one we know could use encouragement? Or is the card still sitting on our table? Great joy and blessings come both to us and the recipient when we follow God's prompting and share His love!