Praying for Our Friends: vv 4-7
“I have indeed received much joy and encouragement from your love.”
Paul made a habit of praying for others. This short passage is a sample of his prayers. There was thanksgiving for Christian love displayed to everyone around Philemon. Who knows about our love for God and for others?
Philemon was a man of faith, but faith can always be strengthened. Faith that is shared will lead to even more knowledge of Christ. The person who knows Christ best may not be a Bible scholar. Love of people, the compassion of Christ, is the way to a mature knowledge.
There is another interesting element in Paul's prayer. He offers thanksgiving for Philemon's encouragement. We are often quick to discourage people. We see all the negatives of life, but few of the positives. Rather than sharing our joy, we steal joy from others. Philemon was not such a friend. He brought joy and encouragement, not only into Paul's life, but into many others. "the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you."
There are two lessons here for us. First, we should pray for our friends. Second, we should express appreciation to our friends for the joy they bring to us.
For Reflection: What friends are on my prayer list?
A Prayer Seed:
Lord, what a change within us one short hour
Spent in Thy presence will prevail to make,
What heavy burdens from our bosoms take,
What parched grounds refresh, as with a shower!
We kneel how weak, we rise how full of power.
Richard Chenevix Trench (1807-1886)
