July 1, 2016 – Philemon 1:7

I always thank my God when I pray for you, Philemon, because I keep hearing about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all of God’s people. And I am praying that you will put into action the generosity that comes from your faith as you understand and experience all the good things we have in Christ. Philemon 1:4-6Have you ever met someone whose every word and act encourages you in your walk of faith in God?  He or she seems to be looking into your heart and fully knows you.  There is no need to put your best foot forward, you can be yourself in his or her presence.  Such a person gives us strength to walk with the Lord.  Why?  We have seen their love and kindness for all God’s people.Are you this kind of person, who gives the joy and comfort God gives each of us who walk with Him?  Do your kind acts refresh the hearts of God’s people?  This kind of person thinks of others rather than self.  Their love for others is more than talk-deep, but heart-deep.  Sacrificially, others-deep, the love that refreshes the hearts of God’s people.Do we need a blueprint for loving kindness for all?  Today I heard a simple one…A, B, C.  This leads to a one-on- one relationship of reconciliation with Jesus.    Ask (for the wisdom, the timing and the way to talk to another.  Ask for a burden for those without Jesus)    Believe (God can overcome the darkness of any heart.  Believe that your witness will soften the heart through the power of God)   Connect (Think of ways to visit and listen.  Hear their story and enter their world.)Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 2 Corinthians 5:17Your love has given me much joy and comfort, my brother,  for your kindness has often refreshed the hearts of God’s people. Philemon 1:7