Philemon vs.4-7 (NIV) 4I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, 5because I hear about your love for all his holy people and your faith in the Lord Jesus. 6I pray that your partnership with us in the faith may be effective in deepening your understanding of every good thing we share for the sake of Christ. 7Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people.
It can be amusing when someone unknown to us is introduced to us, and their first words are, “Oh yes, I’ve heard a lot about you.” Our typical response is to grin sheepishly and reply, “I hope it’s all good!”
That moment reinforces the concept that true character is something you are when no one is watching. Our reputations are built during times we are aware; but also during times we are unaware. As Christians, we remember that others are watching our reactions and responses to life’s daily challenges. Not only this, but others also watch to see how we interact with one another.
In today’s passage, Philemon is acknowledged as a person who “refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people.” Can you think of a better reputation to have than to be known as someone who refreshes the hearts of others?
Gracious Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the times you have refreshed our hearts through others when we needed it most. Now work in our own heart; give us the mind and opportunity to refresh the hearts of others in need. Remind us that we are a reflection of your love in a world who desperately needs you.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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Write From My Heart at https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com
Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com
Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®, Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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