The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chains.
—2 Timothy 1:16 (KJV)
A friend in Christ who will faithfully serve others brings the beautiful gift of refreshment. Yet, as humans, we are tempted to be fickle friends — there for a bit while they need us, but often tiring over the long haul of extended recovery from illness, grief, or the consequences of previous sin or addiction. Is there someone you know who is still chained in some way to the past? Is the LORD calling upon you to bless this person today, tomorrow, or an extended time? What about blessing them as Onesiphorus blessed Paul — often, consistently, and without being ashamed?
Almighty and tender Shepherd, please give me eyes to see your precious ones around me who need the encouragement of your grace that can only be experienced through the touch of a caring brother or sister in Christ. Please help me through the power of your Holy Spirit to be a more steadfast and faithful source of refreshment to these people you love. In Jesus' name, I ask for your help to be more faithful and consistent. Amen.
All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.
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—2 Timothy 1:16 (KJV)
Thoughts on Today's Verse...
A friend in Christ who will faithfully serve others brings the beautiful gift of refreshment. Yet, as humans, we are tempted to be fickle friends — there for a bit while they need us, but often tiring over the long haul of extended recovery from illness, grief, or the consequences of previous sin or addiction. Is there someone you know who is still chained in some way to the past? Is the LORD calling upon you to bless this person today, tomorrow, or an extended time? What about blessing them as Onesiphorus blessed Paul — often, consistently, and without being ashamed?
My Prayer...
Almighty and tender Shepherd, please give me eyes to see your precious ones around me who need the encouragement of your grace that can only be experienced through the touch of a caring brother or sister in Christ. Please help me through the power of your Holy Spirit to be a more steadfast and faithful source of refreshment to these people you love. In Jesus' name, I ask for your help to be more faithful and consistent. Amen.
All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.
Continue reading...
