“…yet for love’s sake…” Philemon 1:9

Yet For Love’s Sake

The entire book of Philemon is a love letter. Paul challenges, even dares, Philemon to prove his love to Onesimus. Love the one who deserted me? Love the one who steals my prized possessions? Love the one who betrayed me? Love the one who left me feeling violated? Love the unlovable?

Paul reminds Philemon of the love of God towards us all. Did we ever once deserve that gracious love? He reminds him of his personal love for him and he reminds him of the love of fellow believers. Philemon had known the sweetness of abounding love.

It got me to thinking about times when I have wanted to unleash my anger on another, but checked my flesh for love’s sake. Have you ever been insulted or demeaned by another and had a scathing rebuttal on the tip of your tongue, only to be reminded how your abrasive words would reflect on the testimony of the Jesus that you proclaim?

Have you been in a position of authority with every right to make demands and yet you led by example while encouraging those under you to step up to excellence? Have you ever denied yourself some pleasure or pursuit because God was calling you to something higher? Have you ever refrained from sharing information that might cause harm to another? Your silence voiced unspoken love.

There are so many situations in life that are, in truth, wonderful opportunities to prove the love of God that lives in us. Yet for love’s sake…

“And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” Amen. (Philippians 1:9-11)