August 29, 2021
But without your consent I wanted to do nothing, that your good deed might not be by compulsion, as it were, but voluntary.
~Philemon 1:14~
Paul had written many letters of encouragement, wisdom and thankfulness towards his brethren. He showed his gratitude for unity in Christ and he endured with fellow Christians mighty persecution. The letter to Philemon is one that not many tend to read much on. Its always stuck out to me, not only because its one of the shortest writings in Scripture but because of the time and love sacrificed to write it. It was clearly important to God to have it set in the Word for us to see for our own eyes. Philemon was someone who the Lord wanted us to read about. We can read how he labored for Christ just as others were; "Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, To Philemon our beloved friend and fellow laborer." (Philemon 1:1)
We can see how much of a faithful brother he was to those around him; "hearing of your love and faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus and toward all the saints." (Philemon 1:5)
We understand how merciful he would be and how obedience played a role in Philemon's life; "Having confidence in your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say." (Philemon 1:21)
Paul asked and encouraged Philemon. He made mention of the respect he had towards free will in the midst of this letter. So as we can see, this letter holds much significance in the way we are to choose to live out the gospel as Paul and his fellow brothers were doing. We can read about the effects of true love towards one another. Respecting ones decision. Encouraging one another. Praying for one another consistently. This all starts with our free will to do so. One's free will can make them or break them, so to speak. In Philemon's case, it seems as though Paul knew he would listen, respect and prepare a way to greet him in time. There are those we know will listen and follow and sadly there are those we know will turn their backs; and we must respect both of these types, as the Lord respects us in the same; "And when you offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving to the Lord, offer it of your own free will."
(Leviticus 22:29)
The brotherly love of a saint being lifted up in a hand written letter by one who just suffered much torment in chains. This is beautiful representation of our Lord. He pleas rather then commands. He encourages rather then projects misery upon another after being shackled and imprisoned. He loves rather then ignores. These all represent a true Godly and brotherly way of living which we are all reminded to live in today.
"as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue." (II Peter 1:3)
I am fascinated by the urge to sacrifice time, prove ones love for others as they do for Jesus Christ and obey the brotherly duties of another. For I, myself, strive to live in this manner. If not for the teachings of Rabbi Jesus, Paul would not have an understanding of how to walk in this manner as well as Philemon. His endurance only grew each step he took, each beating he endured and every rejection as he spoke the gospel. He never gave up on his brethren as he never gave up on his calling. As we follow in the footsteps of our spiritual ancestors, let us be willing to take the time out to encourage another, to respect each other's free will rather then push our agenda upon them and be ready to love with true agape love.
Philemon was just one of many Paul set aside time for. Paul's own free will allowed us to be reminded of just how to put others before ones self and Philemon's free will allowed mercy to be given upon another, and this is the best reflection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Let us find our "Philemons" and encourage them, love on them, endure with them and strengthen them. For all is done by the grace and glory of Christ Jesus. It is up to us to choose to do so. It will never be forced upon us. Just as this letter was not forced upon Philemon, he received it with an open heart. What is God asking you to receive today with an open heart? Are you willing?
Prayer:
Gracious God Almighty, thank you for implanting us each with our own free will. You are not a God who forces anything on Your children, although You have the power to do so, Your love gives humans decision. I pray to make the right decisions in my walk with Jesus. I pray to be that loving sister in Christ each day, to sacrifice all I am for others to be encouraged and to show mercy where mercy is needed. It is because of Your shining example of the Light of the Gospel that I have the ability to be led by the power of Holy Spirit. I praise You for Your great sacrifice and I pray to be another Paul, Timothy and Philemon all wrapped up in one. I pray to grow closer to my fellow "Philemons" and endure beside them in true faith and unity. Thank you Lord for these letters as a reminder of how to live godly brotherly lives. May all glory and honor be given to You for the knowledge of just how we can come together, for where two or more are gathered You are there. In the Name of my King who gives me the patience to endure for my Family, Jesus Christ. Amen.