Can you believe how close we are to Revelations? Just a few more weeks, and the look of Word Wednesday will change. I had a friend call last night with a great suggestion for our next “round,” and I am going to be praying about it! I love her idea! For today, we are looking at the short book of Philemon but, as we know, in the Bible, length of the book says nothing about the power it holds! Next week, Hebrews! Care to share how Philemon touched you? Drop down into the comments and let us all know!
Philemon 1:7 (NIV)–Your love has given me great joy and encouagement, because you, brother have refreshed the hearts of the saints.
There is a group of women out there, scattered across the country, who are the sisters of my heart. Nearly three years ago, God put us together (seemingly randomly) in a critique group through ACFW. We were naturally hesitant with each other at first. After all, pouring your heart out through your writing to strangers is hard, especially when you know they will point out the good AND the bad!
As weeks and months passed, something happened. We bonded. We began to share prayer requests. We poured out our hearts in the form of emotions and trials and joys, not just in our stories. We became something more than crit partners.
God smiled. It amazes me that He knew all along this would happen, that we would need each other and pray for each other and cry for each other and laugh with each other. So, he put us all together. Last year, in Indianapolis, four of us had the God-given awesome privilege of spending a weekend together. I think it solidified what we already knew, that this is a lifelong friendship, a sisterhood, God has formed.
Yesterday, I sent an email to these ladies, a desperate cry for prayer from a very low place. And almost before I could blink, the responses came and the prayers started. Sometimes, we think we go through things alone, and yes, this group is scattered. But, as one of my dear crit partners once said, “Love how, when we pray for each other, we’re like the Verizon map, lighting up the whole continent!” Like Paul says in the verse above, they refresh me and encourage me and bring me joy.
Who has God placed in your life? I have to tell you, I could make a long list. On those days I feel like I’m slogging through mud hip deep, it would do me good to remember just how many people are on my side, thanks be to God. 🙂
Dawn Lucowitz says
This week I chose verse 8 and the first part of 9 – Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, yet I appeal to you on the basis of love.
Living in the Military world, this verse jumps out at me because of the idea of ordering someone to do something because you can. That occurs a ton in the Army, but in the everyday civilian world as well. In the youth group I work with we have been talking about leaders: How to support leaders, how to choose leaders and how to be a good leader. What an awesome example Paul is in this book. He isn’t just using his authority to command Philemon to deal kindly with his runaway slave. Paul made his appeal to Philemon’s heart. I respond much better when someone is asking me to do something that is right than just telling me to because they can.
Jodie says
Servant leadership. That was what Paul lived. I so want to live that myself and get my STUDENTS to understand that! Leading is not about being served. It is about pouring yourself out for the good of those you lead. (And how would the Army look if THAT happened?!?)
Kimberly says
Such a great verse and so true! You refresh my heart, Jodester. It’s great to take a minute and just revel in what God does through His people.
Jodie says
Love you!