Philemon 1:8-25
Today we move on to the second half of Philemon and Paul's appeal for the runaway slave Onesimus. Paul lets Philemon know that he is sending Onesimus back to Philemon--but as a changed man because Onesimus is now part of the family of God. Then, he writes these important and telling words: "that you would have him back forever, no longer as a slave but more than a slave, as a beloved brother--especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord" (vs. 15-16). Paul is putting before Philemon the reminder that there are no hierarchies in God's family.
So how did this passage speak to you today? And how will you draw on and use this reminder (in your church, your family, your day-to-day life)? Tami W.
I am so thankful that God has made the playing field equal for us. It took me some time to really understand that we are all equal. I think human nature seeks to find fault with others so that we can make ourselves feel better about ourselves—I know that I was this way. But, I finally got to the truth that God was telling me. That each of us has a purpose here on earth; we have to listen to him and seek His guidance in allowing him to change us into his image. We also need to encourage others in their journey, not condemn them or do things that cause them to stumble in the areas that they are working on.