The Refreshed Heart

“I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers, because I hear of your love and of the faith that you have toward the Lord Jesus and for all the saints, and I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective… because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you”
(Philemon 4-7).

Big things often come in small packages. Such is surely the case as it relates to the Apostle Paul’s letter to Philemon. Although the letter is made up of only 25 verses, it contains much to learn and much to consider. As I studied the book this past week, I was particularly moved by verses four through seven. Paul expressed deep thankfulness for several things from which we might learn.

First, he noted that his prayers were filled with thankfulness because of the love and faith he knew existed in the church that met in the home of Apphia and Archippus. What a wonderful testimony to their maturity in Christ! This group of saints was acknowledged by Paul to be men and women of love and faith. If only such words might apply to all of God’s people. But there’s more.

Paul also took pains to mention the sharing of their faith, which is a natural byproduct of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. That’s simply another way of saying that when a church is filled with love and faith, telling others about Christ comes about spontaneously. God’s people cannot help but speak of Christ when their hearts overflow with love and faith.

But note in particular the outcome of their faith, love and witnessing. We are told that “the hearts of the saints have been refreshed.” I like that. What it suggests is that refreshed hearts are the result of doing what God expects of all Christians. That is, as we grow in faith and love, speaking freely of what Jesus has done in our lives, our hearts benefit; our hearts are refreshed.

Now how does this apply to each of us on a daily basis? I speak almost daily with fellow Christians who describe “tired hearts” as opposed to “refreshed hearts.” Inevitably, as part of the conversation, it becomes apparent that their faith and love are under attack. Some can’t recall the last time they spoke to another person about Jesus. When such a condition exists, it’s only a matter of time before life becomes dreary, dull, lifeless, joyless and thankless. What a sharp contrast to those Paul had in mind when he wrote to Philemon.

Friends, if you heart needs refreshing, I would encourage you to consider two things. First, tell God your faith is weak and your love is faltering. If he does anything well, he comes alongside those who express such weakness. And second, no matter how inadequate you feel, tell another person about Jesus and what he means to you. Over time your heart will feel the difference. I guarantee it. Later in the letter Paul wrote, “I am confident that you will do even more.” That’s my prayer for you this week!