What are you known for? Is it your intelligence? Maybe it is a skill you have honed over the years, and people seek you out when they are in need. As a Christian, you should be known for your love for others. Today we see such a person in Philemon. He had a thousand reasons to be known for something else, but Paul commends him on his love for the church.
Philemon 1:5
“because I hear of your love and of the faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus and toward all the saints;”
I’ve Heard of Your Love
Philemon was a wealthy man who loved Jesus and the people of the church. He was known for his care of God’s people, and his reputation had reached Paul. This meant a lot to Paul because the church was being taken care of and Philemon could be focusing his attention elsewhere and directing his resources for other causes. He provides an excellent example for all believers.
If you can be known for anything, be known for your love of others. Whether you are rich or poor, use what you have to show the love of Jesus to those around you. Please don’t do it for the notoriety or appreciation. Do it because God moves your heart. The satisfaction you will get from being obedient to God will supersede any applause you might get.
Be Known for Your Love for Others
To be known for your love of others starts with your love for Jesus Christ. Sure, you can fill your time with good deeds and sacrifice for others, but you will burn out or become bitter if the motivation is wrong. Instead, let it be out of the overflow of love that the Holy Spirit is pouring into your heart. (Rom 5:5) When we minister out of that overflow, our motivation is right, and our joy is much more profound.