Read Philemon
In your journal, write down the things that stick out to you from today’s Bible reading. Respond to what God shows you as you feel led (confession, thanksgiving, etc.)
In your journal, write down the things that stick out to you from today’s Bible reading. Respond to what God shows you as you feel led (confession, thanksgiving, etc.)
Philemon, a very short
letter, is often discarded by believers as difficult to understand or not
applicable to everyday life. Knowing some of the letter’s context helps with
both of these problems. Paul was writing to Philemon, a slave owner, on behalf
of Onesimus. We don’t know exactly what happened, but it appears that Onesimus
stole from Philemon (vs. 18), ran away and then became a Christian. This was
punishable by death. Paul was pleading that Philemon would show Onesimus mercy.
While on the surface
this doesn’t seem applicable to daily life, “All Scripture is God-breathed, and useful for teaching, rebuking,
correcting and training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16). Some passages
simply require further thought and prayer before you know how the Holy Spirit
wants to use them in your life.
Prayer
and Meditation
1. Philemon would have
been within his rights to kill Onesimus. Paul encouraged him to by merciful to
Onesimus. Is there anyone in your life that you need to show mercy to? Ask God
to show you what this looks like.
2.
Paul
loved Onesimus, a slave on the run from his owner. Ask God how you can love
someone who is down and out. Ask how you can share the hope of the Gospel with
them.
3. Paul acted boldly on
behalf of Onesimus. Is there anyone that you need to stand up for? Ask God to
reveal a group of people who are oppressed and intercede for them.
