For we have great joy and consolation in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed by you, brother. — Philemon 1:7 NKJV
Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people. — Philemon 1:7 NIV
Reflection on Verse for Today
This verse is also a magnificent witness of Philemon’s maturing Christian character, as the apostle had heard that other believers were being refreshed by Philemon’s work. The news had reached the apostle’s ears, and he had heard about it. What a source of joy this must have been for Paul, who not only helped bring this man to a relationship with Christ, but also heard about the man’s continuous spiritual growth in his life as a Christian.
Paul did not want the return of his slave to ignite any unspiritual resentment or wrath in Philemon, which is probably why he composed the letter requesting the reinstatement of Onesimus in a way that honored the Lord and would develop Philemon’s spiritual growth even further. Onesimus had been a faithful slave to Paul for many years, and Paul wanted him to continue to serve Philemon even after he had freed him.
It is my prayer that each of us will endeavor to behave in an equally godly manner and obey the instructions that we receive from the Bible in thought, word, deed, and motive. In this way, the testing of our faith will not result in an ungodly response, but rather will show that our faith is maturing, that we are growing in grace, and that we are responding in a way that is pleasing to the Lord.
My Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am grateful to You for the gift of my Christian brothers and sisters. I pray that while we share the gospel together and rejoice that our names are written in heaven, we may actively grow in grace and become more mature in our faith.
We give You thanks that we have been united in Him and became a part of Your church. We are grateful to You for the insights that the book of Philemon provides regarding the development of our spiritual selves, the love of Christ, and the ability to forgive those who have wronged us.
I pray that You would find both my words and my deeds to be pleasing, and that You would use me to encourage the hearts of other believers for the purpose of praising and glorifying You. In the name of Jesus, I ask for this. Amen.