-October 30, 2023-
Good morning, happy Monday,
“The Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain; but when he arrived in Rome he sought me out very zealously and found me. The Lord grant him that he may find mercy from the Lord on that Day—and you know very well how many ways he ministered to me at Ephesus.”
(2 Timothy 1:16-18).
Onesiphorus is not exactly a household name among God’s people, but he had an outstanding testimony and was a godly example. Paul also mentioned him in 2 Timothy 4:19, “Greet Prisca (Priscilla) and Aquila and the household of Onesiphorus.”
Because Paul speaks of the household of this dear brother, friend, and servant of the Lord, Bible scholars believe he may have died and gone to be with the Lord. Hence, the phrase, “The Lord grant him mercy from the Lord in that Day…” Whether he was alive at this time or not isn’t important, it’s how he lived his life that counted. He was a likely an elder in the church in Ephesus. Timothy was a pastor in Ephesus and was very familiar with him.
His name means, “bringing advantage.” Every believer should bring an advantage to the saints in the local church, serving the Lord, helping and encouraging those in need, and being a blessing. This is exactly what Onesiphorus did. Are you bringing an advantage to others and showing Christ to them? He did just that in several ways: often refreshing Paul, not being ashamed of Paul’s imprisonment, and actively seeking out Paul in Rome until he found him, and ministering to him in Ephesus.
What a privilege and blessing to be mentioned by Paul in four verses in the Scriptures! What a great example he was! I have attended many funerals over the years. When a godly man or woman departs this world they leave a legacy to their family and church family. It is such an inspiration and encouragement to hear of their lives, even in a time of grief and loss.
May we live our lives fully for the Lord, using every opportunity to serve Him. What do people say of you? What is your reputation? How are you perceived in the home, at school or work, and in the neighborhood and community? A cement company used to have a slogan on their trucks: “Find a need and fill it.” When something needs to be done, do it; when someone needs help, help them; when volunteers are needed, lend a hand.
Have a blessed day being a blessed example wherever you go today. Stay safe and healthy.
Living for Christ is living like Christ,
Dean
Dean Allen's Daily Devotional 