The Daily Fountain Devotional Saturday, November 26, 2022
The Daily Fountain Devotional Saturday, November 26, 2022
Saturday, November 26,2022
TOPIC: HOW FAR CAN YOU GO?
TEXT: Philemon 1:17-25
17 If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself. 18 If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account; 19 I Paul have written it with mine own hand, I will repay it: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides. 20 Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord. 21 Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say.
22 But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you. 23 There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus; 24 Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers. 25 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.
The Daily Fountain Devotional Saturday, November 26, 2022
INTRODUCTION TEXT
In this passage we are challenged by the fatherhood or friendship of Paul with Onesimus, his new convert. After Onesimus' redemption, Paul participated fully and actively in ensuring his restoration. The manner he reached out to his estranged Master - Philemon - was remarkable. He placed his reputation, his finances, his social capital and spiritual standing at the disposal of Onesimus, in order to effect his restoration. It was done unreservedly and selflessly.
Let us pay attention to verses 17-19. This is the true brotherhood that should exist among believers. We need to help one another go through the full process of restoration, outside salvation. Our friendship or brotherhood should cost us something, beyond lip-service. The blood of Christ shed for us should enable us share ourselves for others.
Prayer: Lord, use me as a vessel of restoration to others and may my spiritual credibility be worth spending for the brethren.