Devotion: Philemon 1:4-7: Reconnecting ? The Methoblog

Original post at http://dlollis.wordpress.com/2012/07/20/devotion-philemon-14-7-reconnecting/

4 Philemon, I thank my God every time I mention you in my prayers 5 because I?ve heard of your love and faithfulness, which youl t have both for the Lord Jesus and for all God?s people. 6 I pray that your partnership in the faith might become effective by an understanding of alhat is good among us in Christ. 7 I have great joy and encouragement because of your love, since the hearts of God?s people are refreshed by your actions, my brother.? ? Philemon 1:4-7

I always dread those moments when I have to have a tough conversation with someone. I try playing out the situation in my mind. I work through all of the scenarios.? Sometimes, I?ll spend some time thinking through worst-possible outcomes.

Paul?s writing a letter to Philemon and he?s about to get into a serious issue.? It?s a letter that could potentially lead to a breakdown in relationships.

Paul has a previous relationship with Philemon and, here, Paul tries to connect with Philemon.

Maybe in this, we find a way to approach tough situations:

1. It begins with prayer!? Paul is praying for Philemon by name.
2. Paul affirms Philemon?s work.? Paul?s heard about Philemon?s faith and he lets him know that.? Sometimes hearing a good word goes a long way in repairing a relationship.
3. There?s a ?next step.? Paul?s praying that Philemon?s partnership in faith will grow.? It?s a prayer with a goal for growth.
4. There?s for Philemon.? Paul?s words show an appreciation for Philemon?s life, for his love and compassion.

In the next devotion, we will get into the tough news, but for now, Paul focuses on reconnecting.

Challenge:? How can you reconnect with someone even when you have to deliver some tough news?? Who in your life can you pray for, affirm, encourage and love?

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Source: http://methoblog.com/3_0/2012/07/devotion-philemon-14-7-reconnecting/

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