“And concerning you, my brethren, I myself also am convinced that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able also to admonish one another. But I have written very boldly to you on some points so as to remind you again, because of the grace that was given me from God, to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles, ministering as a priest the gospel of God, so that my offering of the Gentiles may become acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit. ” Romans 15:14-16

Mature believers are full of goodness, filled with knowledge, and able to instruct one another. But there is an ongoing need for reminders. Spiritual growth does not eliminate the need for repetition. We often know more truth than we consistently apply, and thus important reminders are to “do the truth” that we know.

A key work of Holy Spirit is that of transforming the people of God; to be “sanctified by the Holy Spirit.” Goodness, knowledge, and the ability to instruct, encourage, and challenge others results from the work of Holy Spirit. This is an important reminder: Sometimes we focus only on what still needs growth. Paul reminds us to recognize and celebrate the evidence of God's work in ourselves and others.

We do well to welcome godly reminders. Paul’s Roman audience already knew much of what he taught. We too likely have much familiarity with truth. The challenge is not lack of knowledge but lack of remembrance. Thus, when we encounter familiar truth we must not quickly dismiss it, but rather ask God how He wants us to apply it today.

The healthiest believers are those who humbly receive reminders of God's truth while faithfully encouraging others in that same truth.

Be sure to also see Amazon ebook & print devotional and podcast: New Day Dawning.