This post is Day 19 in a series of studies about “Philemon”. I strongly suggest you begin with the introduction to this study, please click here to read it.

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Philemon – Day 19

I am sure that Philemon would enjoy a visit from Paul and look forward to the lessons he would learn from him. Maybe he would think: Oh great, I do not need to prepare any messages while Paul is here. He will preach and I will learn insights about faith!

Philemon 22

And one thing more: Prepare a guest room for me, because I hope to be restored to you in answer to your prayers.

The Thought

Could these words be a threat for Philemon to read? Would his reaction be “Oh dear! If Paul is coming, I don’t have a choice in the matter of Onesimus!” Or would he think “Oh great! Paul will be able to see first hand that Onesimus is now re-instated and growing in his knowledge of The Lord as are the others in our church.”

I am sure that Philemon would enjoy a visit from Paul and look forward to the lessons he would learn from him. Maybe he would think, “Oh great! I don’t need to prepare any messages while Paul is here. He’ll do the preaching and I’ll learn new insights about faith!”

At our house, my husband and I have had an open home for most of the 40 years we have lived here in France. We have learned much along the way, and have been very blessed by meeting evangelist preachers and speakers and some well known personalities. 99% of the time they have proved to be really ordinary, and on a spiritual journey just like the rest of us.

I am sure Paul was the same. I believe he lost all pride at the time of his dramatic conversion.

Action

Ask yourself today how you would feel if you had a famous preacher/teacher/evangelist coming to stay with you. What would be your first reaction on receiving the message of this verse? Would you think the guest room needed re-decorating? Would you panic because you don’t even have a guest room? Or would you feel thrilled and excited, expecting to get some new encouragements and gems of Biblical understanding during your conversations together?

Pray for those who travel for The Lord, and pray for their hosts today.

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