In Colossians 4, Paul makes mention of several of the dear servants of God with whom he was acquainted.  Among these was Onesimus, of whom it is said that he was a "faithful and beloved brother."  A short commendation is this, but Oh how comprehensive!  How meaningful and valuable are the characteristics it conveys!

A great deal can be said for the man who truly is a "faithful and beloved brother."  It is not his desire to draw attention to himself, but his eye is ever on the welfare of the church.  He can always be counted on to attend the meetings.  He always carries his end of the load.  He doesn't complain when his efforts go unnoticed or disregarded for he doesn't seek the applause of men, nor does he feel that the church is in debt to him.  He is kind and longsuffering and not easily provoked.  He is willing to patiently bear many things at the hands of those who are weak in the faith.  His mind is not filled with evil and suspicion, but his delight is in the Lord and His church, and the great principles upon that church is built.

God be thanked for such members as these, whether they be brethren or sisters.  What would we do without them?  If it were not for the faithful, there would be no church.  There would be no meeting house and no services for anyone to attend, not even for the unfaithful who are prone to go to meeting only when they find it convenient, or when there is nothing else they prefer to do.

Dear Lord, wouldst Thou stir up the hearts of the unfaithful that they might seriously consider what they are neglecting and the magnitude of what they are missing, and where this world would be if all Thy children were like them!  Wouldst Thou enable them to realize that when they forsake their responsibilities toward the church they are essentially casting their ballot in favor of doing away with the church and all that is good in this world, and turning everything over to Satan!

Oh that each member of each church would strive to be a faithful and beloved brother or sister as the case may be!    ---Elder Ralph Harris