Giving up "rights" for grace: reflections on Philemon

Last week, I had agreed to join with some other ladies in spending a week in the book of Philemon. Only problem with that? I didn't open my Bible (or have ANY semblance of a quiet time) until Thursday - the last day of our study of Philemon.

So, I decided on Thursday to read through the whole book (it's only one chapter long - go read it now!) and jot down some observations and applications as I read through it. I came away from reading it amazed at Paul's concern for Onesimus and his faith in Philemon to respond in a Christian manner. Here are some of the thoughts I jotted down in reflection:

Paul knew Philemon would most likely struggle with the situation. What Paul was asking him to do - forgive Onesimus and accept him as a co-laborer in ministry - was probably the last thing he wanted to do. As a wronged master, he had rights. Paul was appealing to Philemon to abandon his rights as a wronged master for obedience in the Lord. Paul knew that this forgiveness and acceptance would be extremely difficult in the flesh. He prayed that "the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ" would be with Philemon's spirit - that he would be given an extra measure of supernatural grace. 

What difficult situation(s) are you facing right now? Is God asking you to "give up your rights" in order to further the ministry of the gospel? I pray that "the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit" as you seek to honor God in this situation.