Amber- Philemon

S- v.8-10 "Therefore, though I might be very bold in Christ to command you what is fitting, yet for love's sake I rather appeal to you-being such a one as Paul, the aged and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ- I appeal to you for my son Onesimus..."
v. 21 "Having confidence in your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say."

O- If Paul was anything, he was bold in every area of his life represented in Scripture. I like the way he emphasizes Philemon's love and commends it at the beginning of the letter. Then he hits him with an action that will require love and could be very challenging for him to fulfill. There is a theme of reconciliation when a person becomes a believer despite of what may have occurred before. Also, Paul pleas on behalf of Onesimus, but then in verse 21 tells Philemon what He expects of him.

A- How often God has done a similar thing in my life. He will teach me through multiple avenues about a certain truth or Christ-like characteristic and then a situation comes along where I have to put what He has been teaching me into practice. I pray that I will always learn what He is teaching me well, so I will be willing to put the teaching into practice.

Paul had high expectations of Philemon. Sometimes I'm afraid in our churches and relationships that we are afraid to place high expectations on someone. Well, first it means that we have to be living it ourselves. Secondly, sometimes it's just easier to sit back and say nothing in certain situations. I believe it has to be done in the right spirit and in the context of a relationship.

P- Lord, may you always find me sensitive to your teaching. Not just learning it Lord, with my head, but learning it with my heart, so that it will truly make a difference in my life. May I live a life that is honoring to you. Make me bold Lord, in every area of life, not because of anything that I am, but because of the confidence I have in you.