Transformation

 Scripture:

“Onesimus hasn’t been of much use to you in the past, but now he is very useful to both of us.” ‭‭Philemon‬ ‭1‬:‭11‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Observation:

Paul is writing to Philemon to beg him to take Onesimus back and to treat him well as a slave. Onesimus was a runaway slave who met Jesus and became a strong Christian under Paul’s mentorship. When Onesimus came to Christ, his life was dramatically changed. He went from being “of much use” in the past to being “very useful” because of Jesus.

Application:

Sometimes we consider people has hopeless cases. There are people that seem useless and unproductive. When these people really encounter Christ, they are completely changed. This says to me that I should never give up on anyone. It also speaks to my heart about people the world has given up on. We must never lose sight of the redemptive power of the cross and the resurrection. God can still turn people around in big ways, which will change their lives forever.

Prayer:

Lord, help me to see people as You see them. Teach me to never give up on anyone. Show me how to love those You love and bless those You bless. Show me how to love Your people well. Help me to see potential in every person who comes to Christ and to never give up on anyone. 

Your Son,

Jeff