Scripture

Philemon 1

Click here to read today’s passage on Bible Gateway

Observation

What is Paul’s goal regarding Onesimus and Philemon? Why?

Application

Do I forgive my fellow believers when they’ve wronged me? Do I try to be a peacemaker between estranged Christians?

Prayer

Pray today’s Scripture back to God:
Dear Father in Heaven, Thank You for including this little letter in Your Word. Help me to follow both Paul’s instructions and his example. May I seek forgiveness when I wrong someone, extend forgiveness when I have been wronged, and teach forgiveness when there is a dispute between my fellow believers. In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Pray to BLESS!

One good way to pray for people is to use the acronym BLESS to pray for God’s blessing on every area of their lives:

• B – BODY (physical health)
• L – Labor (their job or school)
• E – Emotions (emotional health as well as guarding against letting emotions rule)
• S – Social (relationships with family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, church, etc)
• S – Spiritual (remaining true to God and growing in Him)

Spend some time praying for the following people and ministries:

• David & MaryBeth Hollander (Cole, Marcus)
• Bob & Peggy Hoover
• Fred & Gwen Iovine
• Pat & Hannah Kelley

Ministry:

• Chrysalis Women’s Transitional Housing

CLF:

• Pray that we would be a church that is dedicated to the breaking of bread, both in the sense of being devoted to observing the Lord’s Supper, and in meeting together for meals to fellowship, to deepen bonds, to heal offenses, and to end disputes.

Community: Pray for Ontario…

• That city leaders would submit to God
• That people can find and keep gainful employment
• For sound financial management by city officials
• Salvation for unbelievers
• For the mayor, city council members, and public works officials

MEMORY VERSE OF THE WEEK:
Be careful that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit based on human tradition, based on the elemental forces of the world, and not based on Christ. – Colossians 2:8 (HCSB)