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Scripture Reflection by Sang Sur on Philemon 1:9 posted September 3, 2023 - Prayer Tents
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Loving appeal for mature Christian relationships
I find that newer Christians need a bit of “do this” and “do that” and “don't do this” to help them get the message and understand its implications over time. And unfortunately, many people remain in that baby mode, not being able to understand the deep things. This is another reason why small groups who meet frequently in close-knit relationships are so important instead of placing a greater focus on the once-a-week Sunday service.
As christians grow in their faith and learn what it means to walk with God, we need each other to encourage us to grow and point out when we start heading the wrong way. This is where we appeal to one another out of love.
Paul speaks as a brother to Philemon, not as a spiritual and more ranking apostle. He doesn’t need to yell at Philemon saying the Bible says this or that. Instead, Paul just tells Philemon what is in his heart and leaves the results with Philemon.
In the same way, let us enjoy our communion with one another while we have the chance. Our fellowship is also how God speaks to us to grow into holiness. Let us remember God calls us to deep, and not remain shallow.
9[9-10] I’d much rather make an appeal because of our friendship. So here I am, an old man, a prisoner for Christ, making my loving appeal to you. It is on behalf of my child, whose spiritual father I became while here in prison; that is, Onesimus.
Philemon 1:9 (TPT)
Sunday, September 3, 2023
Leonia, NJ USA
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Leonia, NJ USA
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Scriptures Marked by Sang Sur
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Friday, October 31, 2025
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Tuesday, October 14, 2025
Paul went to speak with those who were interested. He didn't preach or hold discussions with people who didn't care. Over time, as people (in relationship), find interest, let's be ready to engage.
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Saturday, September 27, 2025
"tremendous sense of holy" or "great fear" comes by the grace of God. We need this more today, and only God can provide this.
"tremendous sense of holy" or "great fear" comes by the grace of God. We need this more today, and only God can provide this.
Saturday, September 27, 2025
Slipping away from busy days. The more busy and hectic work becomes, the more we must practice slipping away and spending time with God. That's what Jesus practiced and modeled for us.
Slipping away from busy days. The more busy and hectic work becomes, the more we must practice slipping away and spending time with God. That's what Jesus practiced and modeled for us.
Monday, September 22, 2025
Jesus went out and stepped forward. Jesus takes the hit to protect us. Many kings and so-called "leaders" would let their subordinates take the hit for them before they are captured. Yet, Jesus step... [see more]
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Monday, September 22, 2025
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Monday, September 22, 2025
Jesus prayed this prayer in front of His disciples. Yet, we know his heart was heavy (next chapter). It shows Jesus was able to carry a heavy heart, and yet, pray for (bless) his disciples, even despi... [see more]
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Monday, September 22, 2025
We should also recognize what we have is a gift from Him. Not anything we have earned or made by our might.
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Monday, September 22, 2025
That's our job too, to manifest who God really is (make God known because we live in His character)
That's our job too, to manifest who God really is (make God known because we live in His character)
Saturday, September 20, 2025
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Friday, September 19, 2025
Could it be that any of our ailments, including difficult circumstances, be to show the glory of God? (Miracles!) Recognizing that God is responsible for the results can give us peace through the wor... [see more]
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Monday, September 8, 2025
Jesus appoints us the same, to be continually by His side, to preach and have authority to heal the sick and cast out demons.
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Sunday, September 7, 2025
God had a special plan for Peter. All disciples vowed to not deny Jesus. It wasn't just Peter who was confronted with this question. But why was Peter singled out? Because he has a special mission, ... [see more]
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Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Children do not pay taxes (or are heavily burdened). These verses share two truths regarding our eternal lives. Children (of God), those who have faith in Jesus, will 1. Are exempt from laboring to ... [see more]
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Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Enjoy our foolishness—that's power! How did Peter, James and John know it was Moses and Elijah? They never saw them from a thousand year ago. They felt it was them, and it was. They spoke foolishl... [see more]
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Sunday, August 24, 2025
God's provision. Mary and Joseph had no money to even find a place to give birth, but the angel tells them now to move to a foreign land. Where would they get the provision to do this? God sent the ... [see more]
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Saturday, August 23, 2025
How can an eight year old kid know right from wrong, other than to follow the ways of his parents. Jehoiachin has a sad story with parents who believed they were God's followers, but were not. Now th... [see more]
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Friday, August 22, 2025
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Friday, August 22, 2025
Let this be our cry, in the midst of chaos and uncertainty. Decide to trust God only, then act continually in accordance with that decision.
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Friday, August 22, 2025
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Friday, August 22, 2025
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Friday, August 22, 2025
God's grace gives us the ability to turn and repent. When we think about the hardening of the hearts of people in the past (Pharaoh, Israelites, etc.), we can't imagine a winning army turning from th... [see more]
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Tuesday, August 19, 2025
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Tuesday, August 19, 2025
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Monday, August 18, 2025
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Sunday, August 17, 2025
How to gain respect. Let God grant that for you. Jehoshaphat didn't do much beyond setting up defenses, which is expected for a king. Yet, there was a strange glow of respect for him throughout the l... [see more]
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