Christian Devotional – June 20, 2015

Read Philemon

VERSE:

Philemon 8-9a–Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, yet I prefer to appeal to you on the basis of love.

TRUTH:

In this very short book, Paul deals with the issue of forgiveness. Paul is trying to reconcile two people where one has wronged the other. Paul could order the one to forgive, but forgiveness must be based on love, not duty. Our love for Jesus is to cover all and help us to love others and offer forgiveness.

RESPONSE:

Father, You appeal to me to forgive those who have wronged me. You have commanded that I forgive, just as I have been forgiven, but my forgiveness came through love, which is how I will give it.