Wednesday 1 January, 2014

17 So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. 18 If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me. 19 I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand. I will pay it back—not to mention that you owe me your very self. 20 I do wish, brother, that I may have some benefit from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in Christ. 21 Confident of your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I ask.

To get the full appreciation of these verses, it is necessary to read verse 1-16.  Paul loved Philemon and his fellow workers and they loved and honoured him. They knew each other very well and had great respect for each other, so that he could speak so.  Paul knew how to approach his friend so that they both would benefit from what he was asking.

I think our aim is to be a friend that can be relied on and respected as Paul was.  One that can be depended on and be a blessing to others.

Lord help us to grow more like Christ and follow Paul’s example, serving you in all we do and say.

Written by Joan Bennett