Philemon 1:8-19 (NIV)__________________________________________________________
Paul's Plea for Onesimus
8 Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, 9 yet I appeal to you on the basis of love. I then, as Paul—an old man and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus— 10 I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains. 11 Formerly he was useless to you, but now he has become useful both to you and to me.
12 I am sending him—who is my very heart—back to you. 13 I would have liked to keep him with me so that he could take your place in helping me while I am in chains for the gospel. 14 But I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that any favor you do will be spontaneous and not forced. 15 Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back for good— 16 no longer as a salve, but better than a salve, as a dear brother. He is very dear to me but even dearer to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord.
17 So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. 18 If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me. 19 I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand. I will pay it back—not to mention that you owe me your very self.
Father Lord, thank You for the chances that You have provided, that I may come to know of Your infinite mercy and grace, to become the person I am today.
Both You and I know too well Father, that I am still a long way from the ultimate pot that You want to mold me into. I place my faith in You Lord that in due time, through Your loving hands, I may be transformed and be able to bring out the best from You to share with the world.
Lord I thank You for the opportunities that You have provided me to grow and be molded. I want to continue to place my trust in You for I know that You have only plans that are good for me. Amen.
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