(Philemon 1 :4-7 NLT) I always thank my God when I pray for you, Philemon, because I keep hearing about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all of God’s people. And I am praying that you will put into action the generosity that comes from your faith as you understand and experience all the good things we have in Christ. Your love has given me much joy and comfort, my brother, for your kindness has often refreshed the hearts of God’s people.
What a beautiful expression of confidence that Paul gives when speaking of his friend Philemon. The relationship must have been close as evidenced by the personal observations that are mentioned in his letter. He praised him for the consistency of his faith and his love for God’s people. He also anticipates that Philemon will share with great generosity as he continues to understand and experience the best blessings in Christ. He further speaks of the refreshing joy and comfort he had personally received from Philemon as he acted in kindness to those around him.
The glory of friendship is not the outstretched hand, not the kindly smile, nor the joy of companionship; it is the spiritual inspiration that comes to one when you discover that someone else believes in you and is willing to trust you with a friendship. – Ralph Waldo Emerson
Godly friendships are such a blessing. I’m sure you can think of someone whose friendship has refreshed you. I want to encourage you to acknowledge that person today. Write them a note, send them a text, give them a gift. Let them know how special they are.
Do not save your loving speeches for your friends till they are dead; Do not write them on their tombstones, Speak them rather now instead. – Anna Cummins
PRAYER: Father, thank you for the many loving friendships that have refreshed my soul. May Your best blessings be theirs today. Give me the words to adequately express how special they are to me. Amen.