by Cathy Vinson

Knowing the FULL story about how God is dealing with another believer benefits our faith. For this reason, Paul sent two faithful, trusted brothers "to tell you ALL the news about me...I am sending him to you for the express purpose THAT YOU MAY KNOW about our circumstances and THAT HE MAY ENCOURAGE your hearts...they will tell you EVERYTHING that is happening here" (Col 4:7,8,9).

It's almost as if our hearts are made to learn of His faithfulness to others. This is one of the provisions of joy and strength to encourage us to press on.

But what happens when we anticipate hearing a story where we know God acted powerfully. Locally or nationally we hear many gaps. We can be disheartened
by what was missed. The bearers of these reports are not like Paul's faithful friends. Not only are we and others not encouraged, but we grieve over the loss of expression to God's glory. How much stronger we'd all be walking if we knew all the things kept hidden.

It's clear to us that many avenues seek to hide the glory of God. We need it to live! May it turn our hearts to an increased yearning for the day of seeing all...the secret closets of prayer, their answers, trustings and exaltations before the Lord. Meanwhile may we stand firm richly waiting in the midst of many glorious secrets waiting to be fully told.

(Col 4:7,8,9)