stephen R Harrison

JOY 365: Day 22

Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the saints. – Philemon 1:7

Tonight, we met with a dear family in our church struggling with grief. As it often does, losing a loved one has caused them to respond in varying ways. We can face hurt, weariness, despair, anger, and a host of other normal reactions when we are hurting and mourning someone’s death. Everyone needs the comfort and peace that come from the Spirit and other brothers and sisters in the Lord. When others are hurting, we must extend love, encouragement, and compassion as we walk with them through tough times. We spent time talking, listening, sharing Scripture, and praying with our brother and sister in Christ. 

As Paul wrote to Philemon, Apphia, Archippus, and the church that met in their home (Philemon 1:1-2), he wanted them to have God’s grace and peace, thanked God for them, prayed for them, and reminded them of how they had helped him. He reminded them that their “love has given me great joy and encouragement” because they had “refreshed the hearts of the saints” (1:7). It always refreshes me when I see brothers and sisters in Christ loving and encouraging others. That reminds me of something greater than the hurt, sorrow, or trouble. God’s love is greater than our difficulties. His grace supersedes our trials. Loving others in Christ produces the joy of Christ. 

We left refreshed and encouraged and sensed they were as well. The joy of the Lord overshadowed their burdens. Our prayer is that their joy and encouragement spilled over into others. We must continue to share God’s love with them as he heals them.

How can you love others? How can this refresh your life?