What a beautiful expression of relationship between two Christians!
Writing from a prison cell, Paul wants, perhaps even needs, his friend Philemon to minister to him from afar. Just think of the opportunity that Paul gives Philemon by writing this letter. Separated by distance and circumstances, Philemon can refresh Paul’s heart by expressing his love towards Onesimus, his runaway slave and now brother in Christ.
Refresh my heart in Christ.
Modern translations of the Bible use the word ‘heart‘ in this verse, whereas the Apostle Paul used a Greek word which actually refers to the bowels or intestines. The word is figurative and carries the meaning of the place of deepest emotion in your body.
In Paul’s day the strongest emotions were thought to come from the deepest place inside you, something like: “butterflies in my stomach”. Paul is talking about refreshment that reaches into the innermost part of his being.
Whilst confined in a prison with all sorts of burdens and pressures, Paul longs for some encouragement. Just some news of the gospel being active in the lives of those he knew would bring light where there was darkness, hope in the face of despair, and joy amid sorrow. There must have been so much to discourage and parch his soul as he endured confinement. How he longed to be refreshed in Christ.
Paul’s confidence that Philemon would forgive, restore, fellowship with, and encourage a new brother in Christ is like a soothing balm to his soul. Even more so since this new brother in Christ, Onesimus, may have behaved badly towards Philemon and his family in the past.
It is indeed worth taking some time to consider the possibility that we could do for someone what Paul requests of Philemon. By Christlike attitudes in our relationships, we can really help refresh the hearts of other believers who may be going through tough times. In doing so we will very likely also be refreshed in our own hearts.
“A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25 NIV).
We can see another example of this mutual blessing when Paul wrote to the Corinthian church.
“I was glad when Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus arrived, because they have supplied what was lacking from you. For they refreshed my spirit and yours also. Such men deserve recognition.” (1 Corinthians 16:17-18).
Reading these wonderful descriptions of people who were a spiritual oasis of refreshment to others begs the question, “Are we like them?”
