I may not see in front of me, But I can see for miles around when I look over my shoulder, and Lord, it`s clear. You`ve brought me here, So faithful every step of the way. What can I do but follow you, For You are the Way, the Truth, the Life, And You`ve promised never to leave me, My Savior, my friend, From beginning to end.
I Am Found In You
by
Steven Curtis Chapman
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Philemon 25 NIV
You only thought we were through with Philemon, didn't you? We still had one verse to go. Did you know that already? Whenever I do a series, I get some who wish it could continue, and others who wish it had ended after the first one. Whichever one you are, this is the last in the Philemon series. This may be the most important, however.
I firmly believe that part of what Paul was saying as he closed out his letter to Philemon was: keep doing what you're doing! Don't give up!
Being a Christian in the first century was tough; not too unlike being a Christian today. There were temptations, frustrations, and distractions that kept the committed Christian from staying focussed on comforming to the image of Christ. Philemon had come a long way. He was a nice guy. People loved to be around him. He opened his house and heart to anyone.
He was living the Christian life, not only on Sunday, but throughout the week. He was an encouragement to everyone around him. He fought the good fight. Paul wanted Philemon to finish his work.
Paul simply reminded Philemon to let the grace of Christ dwell in his spirit. Sometimes, when life gets draining, when the circumstances around you seem more than you can bear, you need to allow God's grace to enter your heart, strengthen your spirit, and give you the encouragement you need to continue. Paul wanted Philemon to have that encouragement. He wanted God's grace to saturate Philemon's life.
Is life caving in around you? Do you need a break from the casualties of living? Could you use a refresher? Call upon the grace of God! Allow His Spirit to enter once again into your heart, drawing you into His mighty presence, preparing your mind to face another day! You can do it if you will cast ALL your cares upon Him.
Allow the grace of the Lord Jesus to be with your spirit!
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