Day 299 – Philemon – Forgiveness, Barriers, Respect.

“That is why I am boldly asking for a favor of you. I could demand it in the name of Christ because it is the right thing for you to do. But because of our love, I prefer simply to ask you. Consider this as a request from me – Paul, an old man and now also a prisoner for the sake of Christ.” Philemon 1:8-9 NLT

Read Philemon 1:1-25

Philemon was Paul’s friend and the legal owner of the slave Onesimus. Paul asked him not to punish his slave but to forgive and restore him as a new Christian brother. Christian relationships must be full of forgiveness and acceptance, because love covers all.

Slavery was widespread in the Roman Empire, but no one is lost to God or beyond his love. Slavery was a barrier between people, but Christian love and fellowship are meant to overcome such barriers. In Christ, we are all one family. No walls of racial, economic, or political differences should separate us. Jesus is the chain and barrier breaker.

Paul, as an apostle, had the authority to tell Philemon what to do. Yet Paul chose to appeal to his friend in a spirit of Christian love rather than to give him orders. This is a great example for us. Wise persuasion accomplishes a great deal more than commands when dealing with people. Always exhibit courtesy and respect in your relationships.

Prayer: Father, please help us to always seek Your wisdom to treat others with respect. I ask that the barriers separating families and loved ones be broken in the Name of Jesus, and that forgiveness will flow, followed by healing. Amen.