“For this perhaps is why he was parted from you for a while, that you might have him back forever, no longer as a bondservant but more than a bondservant, as a beloved brother – especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord” (Philemon 1:15-16).
Paul points to that place where all we can do is wonder. We know that everything is in the Lord’s hands. We know that He is working everything together for good. Does He stoop to this level? Yes, yes He does. All things means all things. Do not be led by the ways of this world, but by the truth and goodness of the Lord. Know that in Him alone is the ability given to join in His goodness.
Lord, You have come that all who believe, see the light and come into Your presence might be guided into Your goodness and mercy. We begin life in one place, but, if we follow the Lord, end up in an entirely different place. What should we say to this? If God be for us, who can be against us? Come then into the provision of the Lord and leave behind worldly conformity to live into Christ our Savior.
Lord Jesus, You have come to save us completely. You have come that we may have life and have it abundantly. When pressed into a corner, as we will be, between what is right in Your eyes and what I do according to the world, help me live into the Christ-life and do what is right in Your eyes. You have set these things up so that we may walk into the life You offer by Your grace. Lead me, Lord, into this new life. Amen.
