Daily Bible Reading, August 2022: God’s Renewing Word of Mercy and Forgivenessنموونە

August 1

Introduction

Philemon was a prominent Christian and the owner of a slave named Onesimus. The slave had run away from his master and then somehow had met Paul, who was then in prison. Through Paul, Onesimus became a Christian. Today’s reading is in the form of a letter from Paul to Philemon, and Paul appeals to Philemon to be reconciled to Onesimus, whom Paul is sending back to him, and to welcome him not only as a forgiven slave but also as a Christian brother.

Scripture Reading

Philemon 1-25:

Today’s Key Verse: Philemon 3

May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.

Reflect

If Onesimus had intentionally run away from his master, Roman law would have allowed Philemon to punish him severely, perhaps even putting him to death. What does Paul encourage Philemon to do instead? What does Paul’s letter to Philemon teach us about how Christians should treat one another? What can you learn from Paul’s example and actions on behalf of Onesimus?

Pray

Holy God, fill me with your Holy Spirit and give me a humble and repentant heart, teaching me to forgive others as you have forgiven me in Christ Jesus. Amen.

And now, join us in our continued prayers for Ukraine. Merciful and loving God, we pray for an end to the war in Ukraine, for the protection of those who have stayed behind, and for those risking their lives to distribute Bibles and life-saving aid. We thank and praise you, Lord God, for your miraculous healing of three injured drivers when a caravan of vans transporting humanitarian aid and Bibles was bombed in early April. Dear God, we lift up Bible Society staff, volunteers, and local churches who continue to bring physical and spiritual assistance to those in desperate need, despite the dangers of war. We pray for their continued safety and thank you, God, for the generosity of donors who are helping to provide Bibles and Scriptures resources to the people of Ukraine. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Isaiah 41:1-20: God offers words of assurance to Israel.

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