Talk Between Brothers...

8 Accordingly, though I am bold enough in Christ to command you to do what is required, 9 yet for love's sake I prefer to appeal to you—I, Paul, an old man and now a prisoner also for Christ Jesus— 10 I appeal to you for my child, Onesimus, whose father I became in my imprisonment. 11 (Formerly he was useless to you, but now he is indeed useful to you and to me.) 12 I am sending him back to you, sending my very heart. 13 I would have been glad to keep him with me, in order that he might serve me on your behalf during my imprisonment for the gospel, 14 but I preferred to do nothing without your consent in order that your goodness might not be by compulsion but of your own accord. 15 For this perhaps is why he was parted from you for a while, that you might have him back forever, 16 no longer as a bondservant but more than a bondservant, as a beloved brother—especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord. 17 So if you consider me your partner, receive him as you would receive me. 18 If he has wronged you at all, or owes you anything, charge that to my account. 19 I, Paul, write this with my own hand: I will repay it—to say nothing of your owing me even your own self. 20 Yes, brother, I want some benefit from you in the Lord. Refresh my heart in Christ. (Philemon)

At first glance, we might wonder why such a "personal" letter would appear in Scripture.  This seems to be a "personal" issue between Philemon and Onesimus. But that is far from the case. Everything we do in relationship with other beleivers makes a difference. How we treat one another, speak to and about one another, and feel, think and pray concerning one another is really the business of the Body.  We do not need to "be in everybody's business" - Paul actually reminds us to not be busybodies.  But we do need to care for each other's needs, struggles, sins, and areas needing growth in Christ. We need to care enough at times to confront, yet humbly not think ourselves any better, or less in need of reminders ourselves.  This letter helps us see how to address one another, to think Biblically, and to "refresh one another's hearts".  May we tread softly, but boldly and lovingly into one another's lives for their good, and ours.