August 28
Fruit of the Ministry
Philemon 10, 12, 20

Paul wrote to Philemon concerning Onesimus.  He encourages Philemon to receive Onesimus back, not as a slave as he was before, but as a brother in the Lord.  Paul says if Onesimus owes Philemon anything that Paul himself will pay it, while reminding Philemon that he owes Paul his own life.

In verse 20 he says, "let me have joy of thee in the Lord, refresh my bowels in the Lord."  For Philemon to abide by Paul’s wishes concerning Onesimus is a fruit of Paul’s ministry.  Paul had ministered to Philemon and now he calls on Philemon to help Onesimus.

When we minister Jesus to people we’re planting a seed that will grow and produce fruit and benefit the Kingdom of God later on.  The word ‘joy’ here means ‘to derive pleasure or advantage from.’  It’s a joy to see the fruit of our labor ripen and profit the Kingdom of God.

Confession:

I am good ground for God’s seeds to be planted in.  I will bring forth fruit for the Kingdom of God.  Those who have ministered to me will not have done so in vain for I will profit and benefit God’s Kingdom bringing joy to the Lord and to those who have ministered to me!