A WINDOW TO THE HEART

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Accordingly, though I am bold enough in Christ to command you to do what is required, yet for love's sake I prefer to appeal to you—I, Paul, an old man and now a prisoner also for Christ Jesus— I appeal to you for my child, Onesimus, whose father I became in my imprisonment. but I preferred to do nothing without your consent in order that your goodness might not be by compulsion but of your own accord.
Philemon 1:8‭-‬10‭, ‬14 ESV

¶Paul does not order Philemon to make a sacrifice, he appeals on the basis of love. It is interesting how people respond when asked to make a sacrifice for the sake of others. Some seem to receive it as a command and bristle, others receive it as an opportunity to show their love. Perhaps it depends on abundantly you have received the love of God in your own life.

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