Ordinary People: Lessons From Little Known Bible CharactersIhe Atụ

Onesiphorus: the encourager

We would never have heard of Onesiphorus if it was not for a brief comment in one of Paul’s letters, but clearly he was really important to Paul. He had obviously helped Paul in Ephesus in a number of ways, but there were three things that are striking from Paul’s description of how Onesiphorus helped him while Paul was in prison in Rome. Firstly, he had to look hard to find where Paul was jailed, but did not give up until he did. Secondly, he was consistent, visiting Paul often. And thirdly, he was not embarrassed or ashamed by Paul’s plight or the fact that this dynamic man was now chained and helpless.

We all need encouragement at times. It can come in so many ways: a call, email or text, a card, a Bible verse about God’s promises, remembering a birthday, a small gift such as chocolate or a cake. I’m writing this in isolation during the COVID-19 lockdown, and yesterday found a container of daffodils on the doorstep which brightened my day. Earlier in the year after an operation, some cards brought me much needed laughter.

Onesiphorus lived out his Christian life in a quiet and faithful way, but his care for Paul was important at a time when Paul’s ministry could have floundered. In fact, those prison years were incredibly productive, with four of the books in the New Testament – Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians and Philemon – being from that time. Perhaps without the important encouragement from Onesiphorus, Paul might never have written them. We often do not know how important our encouragement is to somebody. The simple actions we take can have much larger consequences. We so frequently experience the care of God through others, and others can experience God’s love through us. What an incredible privilege.

Reflect: Who are the people who have encouraged you in your Christian life and how? Why not thank one of them today? Who is God calling you to draw alongside? Can you take time this week to encourage someone different each day in a way that is meaningful to them?

Prayer: Faithful God, thank You for the times when others have encouraged me. Help me to be an encouragement to others at all times. Amen

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