Philemon Chapter 1
I Wonder If People See A Transformation In My Life?
Paul writes a letter to Philemon, who had a slave named Onesimus. Paul says to Philemon that his love has given him great joy and encouragement because Philemon has refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people. Onesimus was a slave who wronged Philemon and then fled for safety. Onesimus hooks up with Paul, who is in prison, and ends up becoming a follower of Christ, discipled by Paul. His life is transformed into a brand new life.
Paul pleads for Philemon to accept Onesimus back into his home.
Paul is confident that Philemon will accept Onesimus back, not as a slave but as a brother in Christ. And because of being a brother in Christ, Onesimus will be a better servant to him than when he was a slave to him.
What a great picture of the transformation power of the Holy Spirit in one’s life. It’s also a great picture of the power of love and forgiveness, in accepting someone back into one’s life.
I spoke with a female youth leader yesterday whose cousin was one of her leaders in the youth group. She shared how, at one time, she greatly disliked him because he was so mean, full of anger and hate to others. She couldn’t stand to be around him. But Christ changed his life (there was a transformation) and now he’s a leader in the youth group.
Have you experienced this transformation power in your life? What would God say to you today? “Well done my good and faithful servant?” Or would he say, “What are you doing?”
What would others say about your life? “Your love has given me great joy and encouragement.” Or would they have trouble recognizing a transformation?
It gives me great joy and encouragement to do these devotionals with you guys. Thank you!
