April 25, 2024
Pastor Darin Youngberg
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Daily Bread
Posted on Wednesday, October 11, 2017 by Bro_D
Daily Bread Oct. 11, 2017
Philemon 1:6-7 and I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective for the full knowledge of every good thing that is in us for the sake of Christ. (7) For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you.
Paul writes from prison … he isn’t complaining about it, he sees himself as a prisoner “for Christ”. It is as if he is saying, “it is the LORD’s will that I be in prison.” – Each time he was in chains for Christ, someone was able to experience the grace of the LORD. Paul’s ministry of sharing the gospel and planting churches was effective. People came to know the LORD Jesus as Savior and churches were planted. It happened everywhere he went.
Now, Paul is praying that Philemon would have the same effectiveness. Philemon was a prominent person in the city of Colossae. The church met in his house. So, it would make sense that Philemon and the church could have great influence in the city for Christ. If the hearts of the saints had been refreshed by Philemon, then their hearts could also be discouraged by him.
Influence…. I have heard more than 1 professional sports player say he didn’t want to be a role model – too bad, because of his position in life, he is… like it or not. Every one of us has a circle of influence – like it or not. Philemon had a decision to make – that’s why Paul is writing, Philemon had a dispute with Onesimus, and it could very well have a negative impact on the church and her testimony in Colossae ---- Philemon 1:17-18 So if you consider me your partner, receive him as you would receive me. (18) If he has wronged you at all, or owes you anything, charge that to my account. There are times in life when the LORD calls us to do the right thing by faith, and that right thing is hard, it doesn’t fit our ideal --- but, when it is done, does more for the kingdom than we ever thought could be accomplished. When we follow the influence of the Spirit of God, we are a fresh aroma to those around us … causing more to experience His glory.