Through the Bible: PhilemonSampel

Forgive Because Of Love

So if you consider me your partner, receive him as you would receive me. Philemon 1:17 (ESV)

Paul’s letter to Philemon was, in a spiritual sense, an appeal to show kindness through God’s love to forgive Onesimus, to accept the runaway slave as a beloved brother in Christ. Paul did not minimize Onesimus’ sin. This was not some easy breezy grace that he asked Philemon to offer; there was a sacrifice required in this request.

It is not easy to forgive when you have been wronged. Yet, as Christian believers, we must also recognize that our forgiveness came with the cost of Christ’s sacrificial death on the Cross. We must forgive as we have been forgiven — because God first loved us.

Prayer

Dear Abba Father, thank You for pursuing us and lavishing us with unfailing love. Thank You that we are forgiven and restored in Christ, from runaway sinners, from slaves to beloved sons and daughters. Thank You for Paul’s letter to encourage forgiveness in our own life. We trust You to foster renewed life in our hearts and reconciliation in our relationships. In Jesus’ name, Amen.