Introductory Thoughts
Life is full of suffering that occurs for various reasons. Yet, the Christian is admonished never to suffer as a result of his wrongdoing. Christians frequently suffer wrongfully and should never be ashamed for suffering for the name of Christ. Yet every Christian is admonished not to suffer “as a thief” (1 Peter 4:15). When a man puts his faith in the finished work of Christ, he becomes a new creature (2 Corinthians 5:17) and should live differently. The Bible says, “Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth” (Ephesians 4:28). This means that a saved man, although previously a thief, should labour so that he may have to give to others rather than taking from them. Only the power of the gospel can take a thief and make him a generous person. What an amazing witness to the transformation of the gospel!
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Part of suffering is bearing shame when we do wrong. This includes theft (Romans 6:21). There is no shame in suffering for Christ (1 Peter 4:16). Paul did not want to be ashamed in anything (Philippians 1:20). God expects us to work for what we get.
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(For everyone): It is thought that Onesimus stole from Philemon (Philemon 1:11, 18-19). Did Paul expect things to be different when Onesimus returned to Philemon (Philemon 1:15-16)?
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It is thought that Onesimus stole from Philemon (Philemon 1:11, 18-19). Did Paul expect things to be different when Onesimus returned to Philemon (Philemon 1:15-16)?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to give you a heart to labour and give.
- Thank God for the transformation of salvation.
Song
AMAZING GRACE!
