Contemplative Bible Reading

Philemon 1:7 (New Living Translation)

Your love has given me much joy and comfort, my brother, for your kindness has often refreshed the hearts of God’s people.

Paul is thanking Philemon. Philemon has allowed God to work through him to refresh hearts with joy and comfort through kindness.

Philemon didn’t have to do that. Philemon could have concentrated his life on other pursuits. It is a sacrifice to allow God to work through us. That sacrifice is our spiritual worship of God (see Romans chapter 12).

Paul recognizes that sacrifice in Philemon and thanks him.

If you see that sacrifice in someone, be sure to thank them.