WEDNESDAY February 5, 2025
Obedient Forgiveness
Having confidence in your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say. But, meanwhile, also prepare a guest room for me, for I trust that through your prayers I shall be granted to you.
Philemon 21-22
Paul was confident in his friend’s character, as if to say, “I know you Philemon. You will do what is right and go the extra mile.” He knew him personally; he knew the kindness of his friend’s heart.
In Paul’s mind and heart, there remained a hope that Philemon would welcome Onesimus back home without holding a grudge against him. He was confident that he would willingly receive him as a brother. He had the capacity through Christ to forgive his servant and forget the theft and anything else he had done against him.
In his letter, Paul expressed an unwavering trust in Philemon to do even more than he had asked him to do. Yes, forgive him, but also permit him to carry on any Christian duties in the church. Onesimus was such a help to Paul personally in the ministry, so he would be useful to Philemon in the same capacity. Additionally, he should feel free to give his servant even more responsibilities in the ministry.
Paul’s letter encouraged Philemon to also forgive any other people who may have wronged him. This way his heart would not harbor any ill will toward anyone else. His heart would be clean before the Lord. Finally, these verses end with a request for prayer for Paul personally. If Philemon and the church prayed, perhaps God would release him from house arrest so he could come and visit them.
What beautiful lessons are written in Paul’s letter for us to learn. This story truly shows how to forgive someone through the love of Christ. Is there a person in your life who has wronged you, and the Lord has shown you that you must forgive them? Although difficult, be obedient, and ask the Lord to help you to forgive.
Forgiveness is an act of the will, and the will can function regardless of the temperature of the heart.
~Corrie Ten Boom~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
