Not long ago, two newlyweds kissed their honeymoon good-bye. They also purposely did not plan a wedding reception to celebrate their union. Instead, they used the money they would have spent on themselves to selflessly help people in each of the 50 states in the US. In Arkansas, they gave gifts to sick children. In Utah, they aided victims of domestic abuse. In New Jersey, they donated clothing to a homeless shelter—and so on.
Selflessness often means letting go of comforts so that we can make life better for someone else. As a prisoner, Paul decided it would be better to set free his helper and fellow inmate, Onesimus, than to enjoy the pleasure of their Christian fellowship (Philemon 1:13). The apostle was a self-described “old man” then, and his deep appreciation for Onesimus made it hard for him to let the younger man leave. But Paul denied his own desires and did what was best for his slave friend and for his owner, Philemon.
It’s evident that Philemon was also dear to Paul—Paul referred to him as “a beloved co-worker” (Philemon 1:1). Philemon would benefit from having his slave back, but Onesimus would not be back as a servant. Onesimus had wronged his owner, run away, and ended up in jail. Paul urged Philemon to accept Onesimus as a “beloved brother” and to welcome him as he would have welcomed Paul himself (Philemon 1:17-18).
Paul led him to Jesus and called him his child in the faith (Philemon 1:10). His words encourage us to graciously let go of treasured people and possessions when necessary. Paul said, “I am praying that you will put into action the generosity that comes from your faith” (Philemon 1:6). Our ability to “give back” comes from recognizing all that we have received in and through Jesus.
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: John 20:1-18
More:
Look up 2 Corinthians 9:7-9 to learn more about selfless giving.
Next:
How many instances of grace can you find in Paul’s letter to Philemon? How does Onesimus’ story point us to Jesus?
Gary Shultz on September 28, 2015 at 7:51 am
I suppose how you would categorize would determine the actual number; however, what is fascinating to me is the “life” grace has. It was first given to Paul by Christ, Paul showed it to Philemon, apparently family and friends also, now to Onesimus. Grace is requested as it was given to once again multiply it in lives of others. That extension of God’s Spirit must always show up in our lives to multiply it to others; even though powerful, taken and given by choice. The choice of grace, as all good things, comes from God Who graced us with Jesus, making our relation to all of the spiritual gifts possible. That’s how I see it. Thanks
jennifer benson schuldt on September 28, 2015 at 12:53 pm
Gary,
Thanks for your insight. It’s interesting to see how grace is passed from person to person. When my kids come home from school, they talk about teachers “giving them grace” on tests or with other assignment. I love it! No matter what setting we may find ourselves in–school, home, work, ministry–we can give grace to others and hopefully receive some back when we need it! Thank God for His grace, which is ours through Christ Jesus.
Roxanne Robbins on September 28, 2015 at 8:43 am
I’ve typically only paid attention to the first part of Philemon 1:6 which encourages us to “put into action the generosity that come from your faith.” The second half of the verse explains though that in addition to being motivated by faith in Christ, we will experience more generous hearts as we understand and experience all the good things we have in Christ.
jennifer benson schuldt on September 28, 2015 at 12:49 pm
Good reminder, Roxanne. It’s also interesting that in verses 8-14, it’s like Paul is giving “extra credit” points for good motives. He wants Philemon to respond out of love and a willing heart. Only God can place that within us and keep that fire going in our souls. 🙂
Tom Felten on September 28, 2015 at 10:14 am
Jen, thanks for presenting this little book that has some big instruction for us to take to heart. One thing I’m thinking about is the importance of reaching out to those who have failed or who are far from God—not giving up on them. The grace of God can reach even the hardest heart!
jennifer benson schuldt on September 28, 2015 at 12:38 pm
Tom, When I read your comment, a person came immediately to mind. It’s someone I’ve hoped would come to experience God’s grace for many years. Thanks for the reminder that God can reach anyone’s heart. I know that’s true!
Winn Collier on October 3, 2015 at 4:13 pm
Letting go of people – and letting go of our ability to control other’s decisions and the outcomes of their decisions is a difficult but necessary thing, isn’t it?