Showing posts with label Philemon. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Philemon. Show all posts

Thursday, February 2, 2017

Character of Dependability — The "Ds"

As I was studying Galatians 5;22, 23, I decided to see what other verses used the same words.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 (NKJV)

Faithfulness: character of dependability

I thank my God, making mention of you always in my prayers, hearing of your love and faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus and toward all the saints, that the sharing of your faith may become effective by the acknowledgment of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. Philemon 1:4-6 (NKJV)

Faithfulness is Directional
  • hearing of your love and faith which you have toward
  • Toward: motion towards to interface with; literally, moving toward a goal or destination

Faithfulness is Definite
  • toward the Lord Jesus and toward all the saints
  • It's not a random goal, rather it's specific — to the Lord Jesus and then the saints. 

Faithfulness is to be Dispersed
  • sharing of your faith
  • Sharing: something in which one has participation
  • Faithfulness is active and because you have taken part in God's salvation, a natural progression is to share that faith with others. 

Character of Dependability. Faithfulness toward Christ, then followed toward the saints, all with the underlying understanding of what God did for me — His gift of salvation. 

Friday, July 24, 2015

Conclusion

If you are looking for the posts about
God's Amazing Blessing Announcement—I'm moving!
here's the link to the first Part: 
Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.
There are 10 parts in all.
I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—
and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________
This post is the continuation of my study of Philemon.
At the same time prepare a guest room [in expectation of extending your hospitality] to me, for I am hoping through your prayers to be granted [the gracious privilege of coming] to you.
Greetings to you from Epaphras, my fellow prisoner here in [the cause of] Christ Jesus (the Messiah),
And [from] Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my fellow workers.
The grace (blessing and favor) of the Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah) be with your spirit. Amen (so be it). Philemon 1:22-25 (AMP)
Paul closes his letter to Philemon with another request, "get a room ready for me". He had an expectation that the prayers of those at Colossea would be answered, and he'd be released from prison. 

Do I earnestly pray for others, expecting my prayers to be answered? Do I trust that God can do the "impossible" and act accordingly? Or do I wait until God answers and then hurriedly, and often unthankfully, make the necessary preparations? Earnest prayers met with expectations of God's answers. 

Paul also ends his letter as he does so many, mentioning others who are serving along with him. Paul realized the importance of having the help of others. He knew that he couldn't do it alone. And the support of other godly men and women were vital to the ongoing ministry of sharing the gospel. 

Alone or with support of others? Often we view the "I'll do it myself" mentality as "super-christain", where in reality, it's only stubbornness and actually, not biblical. 
So we, numerous as we are, are one body in Christ (the Messiah) and individually we are parts one of another [mutually dependent on one another]. Romans 12:5 (AMP)
We each have different responsibilities and gifts which we are to use to help each other in the overall ministry of sharing the gospel. 

Paul finally concludes his letter with, "grace to you". 
What is wished and prayed for: Grace, the free favour and love of God... Observe, Grace is the best wish for ourselves and others; with this the apostle begins and ends.
From whom: Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, second Person in the Trinity, Lord by natural right, by whom, and for whom, all things were created, and who is heir of all things, and, as God-man and Mediator, who purchased us, and to whom we are given by the Father. Jesus, the Saviour . 
To whom: Your spirit, not of Philemon only, but of all who were named in the inscription. With your spirit, that is, with you, the soul or spirit being the immediate seat of grace, whence it influences the whole man, and flows out in gracious and holy actings.
Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible (Complete)
Philemon is a short letter, however, we can learn a lot from the relationships found within this letter. First and foremost the relationships of each individual to Christ. And that personal relationship with Christ has a profound impact on the lives and relationships with others. And from what we read, the key individuals in Philemon, each had a heart permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG).
I wonder what would be written about me....... 

Thursday, July 23, 2015

Reputation—One that Honors God

If you are looking for the posts about
God's Amazing Blessing Announcement—I'm moving!
here's the link to the first Part: 
Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.
There are 10 parts in all.
I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—
and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________
This post is the continuation of my study of Philemon.    
I write to you [perfectly] confident of your obedient compliance, knowing that you will do even more than I ask. Philemon 1:21 (AMP) 
Past knowledge = confidence of obedience. 
Paul knew Philemon and was aware of Philemon's obedience to God. Therefore, Paul was confident that Philemon would again to right concerning Onesimus. Paul knew that Philemon understood what God would have him do, and that Philemon would do it. 

Reputation. It can be a good thing, or a bad thing. Philemon's reputation as based on his relationship with Christ. Philemon had a good reputation—one that honored God. Paul knew that because Philemon "put on" the things in Colossians 3, Philemon's response to Paul's request would be one that would go beyond expectations. 

What is my reputation? Can others trust me to go beyond their expectations in honoring God and their requests? 

How does one build a good reputation? It once again begins with a relationship with Christ and then living a life in accordance with His Word. 

If my heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG), then I will have strong foundation in building a good reputation—one that honors God.

Wednesday, July 22, 2015

Refresher of Hearts

If you are looking for the posts about
God's Amazing Blessing Announcement—I'm moving!
here's the link to the first Part: 

Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.
There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—
and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my study of Philemon.   
I, Paul, write it with my own hand, I promise to repay it [in full]—and that is to say nothing [of the fact] that you owe me your very self! Yes, brother, let me have some profit from you in the Lord. Cheer and refresh my heart in Christ. Philemon 1:19-20 (AMP)
“Refresh” - ἀνάπαυσόν anapauson- means “to give rest to, to give repose, to free from sorrow or care;” and the sense is, that by receiving Onesimus, Philemon would cause the deep and anxious feelings of Paul to cease, and he would be calm and happy. 
Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible
Cheer and refresh my heart. Do my actions cheer and refresh the hearts of others? That would be an awesome daily goal—be a refresher of hearts! 

How does one be a "refresher of hearts"? 
Well, first and foremost, it all begins with a relationship with Christ. Then that relationship with Christ must impact one's daily life and relationships with others  (Colossians 3; Put On). And as that relationship with Christ impacts relationships with others, then one can be a "refresher of hearts". 

Refresher of hearts. 
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right, persevering, and steadfast spirit within me. Psalm 51:10
Therefore encourage (admonish, exhort) one another and edify (strengthen and build up) one another, just as you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Confess to one another therefore your faults (your slips, your false steps, your offenses, your sins) and pray [also] for one another, that you may be healed andrestored [to a spiritual tone of mind and heart]. The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working]. James 5:16
To be a "refresher of hearts", my own heart must be permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG). 

Tuesday, July 21, 2015

Paid in Full

If you are looking for the posts about
God's Amazing Blessing Announcement—I'm moving!
here's the link to the first Part: 

Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.
There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—
and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________


This post is the continuation of my study of Philemon.    
And if he has done you any wrong in any way or owes anything [to you], charge that to my account. Philemon 1:18 (AMP)

Paul was telling Philemon, "I will pay Onesimus' debt IN FULL." Why would Paul be willing to do that? 

Reason 1: Because that is what God did for him (us). There can never be a way for us to pay for our sin. We are born sinners. And sinners cannot enter the presence of a Holy God. Yet, God in His gracious mercy, provided a way for ALL our Sin to be forgiven. Jesus Christ died in our place, and EACH and EVERY sin was placed upon Him.  (For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. 2 Corinthians 5:21 NKJ)

Reason 2: Because Onesimus was now a fellow Christian and was helping Paul in a great way. Onesimus knew that he needed to return to Philemon, and set things right. Paul saw Onesimus' heart of submission and willingness to do the right and godly thing.

Reason 3: Paul, didn't want there to be any reason for Philemon not to accept Onesimus back. Paul wanted Onesimus to begin with a clean slate. No past debt, rather a new beginning. 

When my heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG), I then begin to fully understand what Jesus Christ did for me on the cross. Having my debt paid in full should make me forever grateful to God and I should be willing to do all I can for Him. "Should" — sadly, I fall short on both those accounts. However, God in His love, provides grace and mercy on a continual basis—for that I am very thankful! 

Debt is paid in full. That provides freedom to live, not randomly, but rather with a sincere and godly purpose—because my heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence and apparition for God. 

Monday, July 20, 2015

Civic & Christian

If you are looking for the posts about
God's Amazing Blessing Announcement—I'm moving!
here's the link to the first Part: 


Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.
There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—
and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my study of Philemon.   

Perhaps it was for this reason that he was separated [from you] for a while, that you might have him back as yours forever, Not as a slave any longer but as [something] more than a slave, as a brother [Christian], especially dear to me but how much more to you, both in the flesh [as a servant] and in the Lord [as a fellow believer]. If then you consider me a partner and a comrade in fellowship, welcome and receive him as you would [welcome and receive] me.
Philemon 1:15-17 (AMP)
Civic & Christian
Onesimus left Philemon. That was wrong. However, while gone, Onesimus was then introduced to Jesus Christ through the ministry of Paul. And from all accounts, was a changed man. 

Each of us have a Civic responsibility, for we live in this world. But we also have a Christian responsibility and the two cannot be separated. 
We are to work hard, take care of property, and live in accordance with the laws (that do not go against God's standards). If we agree to work for someone for a particular amount of money, then we need to do our job to the very best of our ability. We do not complain about not getting more money, nor do we "call in sick" simply because we don't feel like working. Responsibility is to fulfill your duties based on your word, not how you happen to feel. Remember we are working for God, and He has very high standards. 

Civic & Christian
Friendship is a wonderful gift. With friends we laugh, cry, grow, and create many memories. Friendship based on mutual faith in Jesus Christ takes that friendship to a deep level. We now have the wonderful bond of knowing Jesus Christ who died so that we can have eternal life. That bond goes beyond any earthly bond. 

Civic & Christian responsibilities are only fulfilled to the highest standard when my heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG).

Sunday, July 19, 2015

Want vs Right

If you are looking for the posts about
God's Amazing Blessing Announcement—I'm moving!
here's the link to the first Part: 


Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.
There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—
and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my study of Philemon.   

I would have chosen to keep him with me, in order that he might minister to my needs in your stead during my imprisonment for the Gospel’s sake.
But it has been my wish to do nothing about it without first consulting you and getting your consent, in order that your benevolence might not seem to be the result of compulsion or of pressure but might be voluntary [on your part]. Philemon 1:13, 14 (AMP)
What I want vs what I know is right. 
In today's society it's all about what I WANT, rather than what is the right or moral thing to do. We want instant gratification and what feels good at this particular moment. We don't care about consequences or how it may effect others. We only care about ourselves in the here and now. 

Paul could have chosen not to write a letter to Philemon about Onesimus. However, Paul knew that Onesimus returning to Philemon was the right and honest, and more importantly the Christ-like thing to do. 

How often do I do want, what feels good, rather than what I know to be the right thing? How often do I consider the consequences or long-term effects of my actions? 

It's not about what feels good, what I want, or what serves my purpose right now. It's all about—or suppose to be about—doing what is the good, honest and Christ-like thing—doing the RIGHT thing. 

If my heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG), then I'll know what is the right thing, the Christ-like thing to do in each and every circumstance. 

Saturday, July 18, 2015

My Very Heart

If you are looking for the posts about
God's Amazing Blessing Announcement—I'm moving!
here's the link to the first Part: 


Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.
There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—
and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my study of Philemon.   
I am sending him back to you in his own person, [and it is like sending] my very heart. Philemon 1:12 (AMP)
"My very heart"
As I read this verse, I took a moment to think about what would make Onesimus, a servant who was unprofitable to one, become so dear to Paul. 

First and foremost, Onesimus trusted in Christ after he left Philemon. So now Onesimus was a changed man. As a believer in Christ, Onesimus' actions reflected his new relationship with Christ. 

Secondly, I think that Onesimus was learning and growing under Paul's teaching. For learning how to "put on" the godly characteristics from Colossians 3, Onesimus then was reflecting Christ in his actions and attitude. 

And lastly, Onesimus had become and encourager and blessing to Paul. 

"My very heart"
A relationship based on the bond of Jesus Christ between two Christians. That is second only to a personal relationship to Christ. 

First and foremost, my heart must be permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG), so that my relationship with Christ can have an impact in my relationship with others—so that the bond is deep—"my very heart". 

Friday, July 17, 2015

The "A" List

If you are looking for the posts about
God's Amazing Blessing Announcement—I'm moving!
here's the link to the first Part: 


Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.
There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—
and God took care of each and every one! 


______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my study of Philemon.  
Once he was unprofitable to you, but now he is indeed profitable to you as well as to me. Philemon 1:11 (AMP)
Onesimus, the name means "profit, to help". Yet, at one point, Onesimus was unprofitable, useless. Actions to have consequences and can change a reputation very quickly. We aren't sure exactly what Onesimus did, but one thing we do know is that he was NOT where he belonged, in Colossea working for Philemon. 

Unprofitable. Think for a moment, of having that label. Unprofitable.
What makes one, "unprofitable"?
What makes one "profitable"?
The "A" List: An attitude, an action, amount of effort, attention to details, attentiveness to the task at hand, applying aptitude, and the aftereffect. 

Something changed in Onesimus from the time he left Philemon and the time Paul is writing. And that change, had an impact in Onesimus' life and it was evident. That change was the acceptance of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Christians SHOULD act and work differently and it should be a substantial difference—as we are not just working for employers, rather we are working for God Almighty! 

If my heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG), then the "A" list: my attitude, actions, amount of effort, attention to details, attentiveness to the task at hand, applying aptitude, and the aftereffect—should all be a reflection of God and His highest standards.

Thursday, July 16, 2015

Christ-Like

If you are looking for the posts about
God's Amazing Blessing Announcement—I'm moving!
here's the link to the first Part: 

Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.
There are 10 parts in all.
I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—
and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my study of Philemon. 
I appeal to you for my [own spiritual] child, Onesimus [meaning profitable], whom I have begotten [in the faith] while a captive in these chains.  Philemon 1:10 (AMP)


Paul now states his request of Philemon. Out of love and respect for Paul, he is making this request about Onesimus. 

Who is Onesimus? He is a servant of Philemon's who did not do as he should have done. We know that Oneismus was not where he belonged, in Colossae with Philemon. That fact in an of itself, was enough to discredit Onesimus. Yet, now Onesimus is a changed man, since accepting Christ as His Savior. Paul wants to make that clear, and let Philemon know that Onesimus wants to do the right thing and return to Colossae. 

In the original, the name Onesimus is reserved to come in last in the sentence. The order of the Greek is this: “I entreat thee concerning a son of mine, whom I have begotten in my bonds - Onesimus.” Here the name is not suggested, until he had mentioned that he sustained to him the relation of a son, and also until he had added that his conversion was the fruit of his labors while he was a prisoner. Then, when the name of Onesimus is mentioned, it would occur to Philemon not primarily as the name of an ungrateful and disobedient servant, but as the interesting case of one converted by the labors of his own friend in prison. Was there ever more delicacy evinced in preparing the way for disarming one of prejudice, and carrying an appeal to his heart? 
Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible
Here we have three men each who has a major part in this event. 1. Philemon, the employer, who had an employee who did wrong. 2. Onesimus, the servant, who did wrong. 3. Paul, the apostle, the one who introduced Onesimus to Christ. 
Each of these men have a stake in this event. Philemon, will he show Christ-like love and forgiveness? Onesimus, will he demonstrate Christ-like humbleness and obedience as a Christian? Paul, in prison asking another believer to trust him and accept his request based upon Paul's Christ-like attitude and lifestyle. 

In today's society the theme is "what I deserve" or "what is owed me". However, that theme of entitlement is not true. What we each "deserve" and "owed" is NOT based on what we want or how we feel, but rather should be based upon what we do, and how we do it. Work ethic is important. 
Onesimus for whatever reason, left his place of employment, and ran away. Apparently, he thought he deserved more. But after meeting Paul, and learning about Christ and accepting Christ as his Lord, Onesimus had a change of heart—he was now a changed man.

Christ-like attitude is one that shines in all we do and say. Doesn't matter what we are asked to do, we are to do it as "unto the Lord". Christ-like attitude is not based on how I feel, or how I'm treated, rather is is the result of a heart permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG). 

Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Motivating Factor

If you are looking for the posts about
God's Amazing Blessing Announcement—I'm moving!
here's the link to the first Part: 

Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.
There are 10 parts in all.
I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—
and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my study of Philemon.
Yet for love’s sake I prefer to appeal to you just for what I am—I, Paul, an ambassador [of Christ Jesus] and an old man and now a prisoner for His sake also— Philemon 1:9 (AMP)
In verse 8, Paul notes that he could demand, Philemon to fulfill his request, as it is the "right thing" to do. But here in verse 9, Paul doesn't want the "do it or else attitude", rather, Paul would like Philemon to fulfill his request simply out of love, and respect for who Paul is. 

Love. That is a great motivating factor. And this isn't the "I feel gooey" love, rather this love based on Christ and what He did for all of us. It's not a feeling, rather love is a decision. Paul is basically saying, "Because I love God, and I then love you, I act in accordance with God's Word, and I'd like you to do the same."

Paul also makes three other reason clear on why he can is and making this request: 1. He is an ambassador (apostle, chosen by God), 2. He is an old man, 3. He is in prison for preaching God's Truth. 
·Love [Loyalty] and ·truth [faithfulness] bring ·forgiveness of sin [atonement for guilt]. By ·respecting [fearing] the Lord you will avoid evil.  Proverbs 16:6 (EXB) 
Instead, by truth spoken in love, we are to grow in every way into Him—the Anointed One, the head. Ephesians 4:15 (VOICE)
When a heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG), then the love God has for us, and the love we have for God, will be evident in our speech and actions. Doing things because of the love of God and love for each other, is the ultimate motivating factor. 

Tuesday, July 14, 2015

"Do It or Else" Attitude

If you are looking for the posts about
God's Amazing Blessing Announcement—I'm moving!
here's the link to the first Part: 

Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.
There are 10 parts in all.
I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—
and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my study of Philemon.  
Therefore, though I have abundant boldness in Christ to charge you to do what is fitting and required and your duty to do,  Philemon 1: 8 (AMP)
Render: Although I have abundant freedom [boldness, or. even license] in Christ to enjoin upon thee that which is fitting. It was only in Christ, and by his authority as an apostle, that he could claim to come between a slave and his master. Secular warrant for doing so he had none. Such authority and license, however, he would not use on this occasion. He prefers to rely wholly on the respect and personal attachment felt towards him by Philemon, for the granting of his request, which he now proceeds to state. 
The Pulpit Commentaries
How many times have I "demanded" someone do something because I know what God's Word says? In Philemon 1:8, Paul although he could DEMAND, based on God's Word that Philemon do something, Paul rather would ask Philemon (vs 9). 

Often we reach a conclusion on a matter LONG before someone else comes to that same conclusion. The "Do it or else" attitude may get immediate results, but the heart of the person, isn't changed into knowing and learning the truth longterm. If we just step back and share God's Truth, often that person can then learn and make the right choice based on what they know and learn. 

Paul because of who he was, an Apostle, and what he know, God's Truth, knew it was the RIGHT thing for Philemon to do—Paul steps back and says.... but that's verse 9. 

When a heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG), it teaches one when to come along side another and gentle teach them God's Truth, rather than demand that they obey. Encouragement and teaching done in love and trust produces a much longer desired response, rather than the "Do it or else" attitude. 

Monday, July 13, 2015

Joy-Giver

If you are looking for the posts about
God's Amazing Blessing Announcement—I'm moving!
here's the link to the first Part: 

Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.
There are 10 parts in all.
I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—
and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my study of Philemon. 

For I have derived great joy and comfort and encouragement from your love, because the hearts of the saints [who are your fellow Christians] have been cheered and refreshed through you, [my] brother. Philemon 1:7 (AMP)

This verse shows the importance of encouraging and helping others. Philemon encouraged and gave joy to others and this in turn encouraged and gave Paul joy as he heard about what Philemon was doing. 

Philemon as a "joy-giver". That's a great reputation to have! Being a "joy-giver" begins with helping and encouraging those at home, then in your neighborhood, and then as word spreads can encourage others. 

Being a "joy-giver" starts with a heart right with God. Again this goes back the study of Colossians 3:1-17 "put on". And Philemon 1:5, "your love and of your loyal faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus". As one loves God and "puts on" the characteristics of God's love, then the result can be becoming a "joy-giver"!

A "joy-giver" begins with a heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG). For out of the heart filled with love and respect for God, will flow the joy and encouragement to all those around you. 

Sunday, July 12, 2015

Living + Effectual = Acknowledging God

If you are looking for the posts about
God's Amazing Blessing Announcement—I'm moving!
here's the link to the first Part: 
Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.
There are 10 parts in all.
I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—
and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my study of Philemon. 
[And I pray] that the participation in and sharing of your faith may produce and promote full recognition and appreciation and understanding and precise knowledge of every good [thing] that is ours in [our identification with] Christ Jesus [and unto His glory].
Philemon 1:6 (AMP)
That the communication of thy faith: An account of it, of its actings and exercises, of the joy of it, and of the peace a soul is filled with through believing, may be given to the mutual comfort and edification of saints; and it may be shown forth to others by the fruits of it, works of righteousness: but here it seems to design acts of beneficence, communicating to the necessities of others, as flowing from faith; and these words are to be connected with Philemon 1:4 as a part of the apostle's prayers, as what is contained in the preceding verse is the matter of his thanksgiving. And his prayer is, that such a communication of good things, which springs from faith, 
may be effectual: to answer some very good purposes, the good of others, and the service of the interest of Christ, and the glory of God; or, that it "may be evident"; that it "may be fruitful in works"; or show itself in fruits of righteousness, in works of mercy and kindness; and the apostle's sense is, that it might be more and more so: 
by the acknowledging of every good thing that is in you in Christ Jesus: the meaning is, that every good thing that is in the saints, or among them, should be acknowledged to come to them in and through Christ Jesus, in whom all fulness of grace dwells, and from whom all is imparted; and that every good thing that is communicated, or done in faith, which is effectual to any good purpose, should be owned as done by the grace and strength of Christ, and be done to his saints, as if done to himself, and be directed to his glory.
John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible
Talking about and living one's faith should be effectual and evident, resulting in acknowledge that God is the One who blesses us with grace. And this is only possible when my heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG).