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
Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back for good-- no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother. He is very dear to me but even dearer to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord. So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me. I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand. I will pay it back--not to mention that you owe me your very self Philemon 15-19 NIV
"All things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose." That is a true statement. It comes from the Word of God. It means that God is ultimately Sovereign, working life's situations, good and bad, together so that in the end, blessings come in the life of a Christian. God helps us to reach His ultimate goal for our lives, throughout the pages of time.
Philemon probably wasn't too happy when Onesimus left. He lost a slave. He lost revenue; net worth; profit. Even if Onesimus wasn't the hardest working slave, he was still better than nothing. Philemon's first reaction to Paul may have instinctively been "I deserve Onesimus back as a slave."
Yet, God used the time away from Philemon to work an ultimate good in the life of Onesimus. Taking him from a useless slave, he turned him into a useful servant of God. The time was also redeemed for Philemon. Although he no longer had a slave, he now had a new brother in Christ. I don't know about you, but I'll take a brother in Christ over a useless employee any day. Finally, God also worked the situation out for the good of Paul. Paul now had a faithful fellow servant who could help Paul further the cause of Christ. God worked all things for good!
Is there something in your life that isn't turning out the way you planned? You have questioned God, but haven't received an answer that explains why. Maybe you don't think God is in control. Take it from the story of Philemon, Onesimus and Paul. God is working all things for good. Right now it may not seem possible to find good in the midst of the storm, but time is on God's side. He is able, and He will see you through the darkness and back into His glorious light.
His promises are still true. Your future is secure, and the good will come when His will is done!
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All materials © 2010 Richard G. Schlief.
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