Obey The Instructions We Receive From Scripture

 Philemon was a wealthy man from Colossae who came to faith in Christ through Paul's ministry and became a beloved friend of the apostle. Local believers met in his home and like many prosperous people in the Roman empire, Philemon had a number of slaves. One of his servants was called Onesimus, who stole money from his owner and fled to Rome to escape the consequences of his crime.
 This verse is a testimony of Philemon's developing Christian character. News had reached the apostle's ears that other believers were being refreshed through Philemon's ministry. What a joy for Paul, who not only led this man to Christ but received news of his ongoing spiritual progress in his Christian life. 
 Paul did not want the return of his slave to ignite any unspiritual resentment or wrath in Philemon, which was 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 further.
 May we also seek to act in a similar godly manner and Obey The Instructions We Receive From Scripture in thought, word, deed, and motive, so that the testing of our faith does not cause any ungodly reaction, but demonstrates a maturing faith, a growth in grace, and a response that honors the Lord.
Philemon 1:7 Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people.

Our United Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for our brothers and sisters in Christ. We pray that together we may grow in grace and mature in the faith as we 'gossip the gospel' together and rejoice that our names are written in heaven. Thank You that we are one in Christ and members of His Body. Thank You for the lessons we can learn from the little book of Philemon and the pointers it contains in spiritual growth, Christian love, and forgiveness. We pray that our words and actions would be pleasing in Your sight and that we may be ones that refreshes the hearts of the saints, for Your praise and glory. This we ask in Jesus' name, AMEN.