Philemon 4-21v 11 “Onesimus hasn’t been of much use to you in the past, but now he is very useful to both of us.”
I always thank my God when I pray for you. I keep hearing about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all of god’s people. I am praying that you will put into action the generosity that comes from your faith. That is why I am boldly asking a favor of you. I appeal to you to show kindness to my child, Onesimus. Onesimus hasn’t been of much use to you in the past, but now he is very useful to both of us. I wanted you to help because you were willing not because you were forced. If he has wronged you in any way or owes you anything charge it to me. I am confident that as I write this letter that you will do as I ask and even more!
The bible as a guide for how we are to live our lives is very useful. It is about faith but also action. About attitudes that can change and love that prevails. Paul is asking Philemon to take back into his family someone who wronged him. This week I have heard about children who do not respect their parents, who take them for granted and demand money. Parents who distanced themselves and children who must learn to manage on their own. Paul prays and asks but does not demand. Wants love to prevail in a new relationship. If you are in a difficult situation with those you love, then pray for them. When Gods answers your prayers and they return, lovingly accept the new person that they are as they request to be part of the family again.
Prayer: Heavenly Father help us this week to repair our relationships with family that we love. To change our hearts to lovingly accept the new person that you have made. Amen.
CrossWalk 