The Risk of Trusting Again

Sunday Rewind is a 5-day Devotional based on the weekly sermon at Resonate Community Church

February 22nd Sermon, Day 3

Philemon faced an agonizing decision. Could he really trust that God had changed Onesimus's heart? The man had stolen from him and run away. Every logical reason said to protect himself, to keep the door bolted shut. But Paul was asking him to do something that felt impossible - to trust God's work more than his own fear.

Trusting someone who has hurt us is one of life's greatest challenges. It means risking being hurt again. It means opening the door when everything in us wants to keep it locked. Paul couldn't guarantee Onesimus's future behavior, but he could point to the evidence of God's transforming work. Sometimes faith means taking calculated risks based on what we see God doing, not on what we fear might happen. When we choose to trust God's ability to change hearts over our need to protect ourselves, we step into the adventure of grace. It's scary, but it's also where miracles happen.

Bible Verse

'Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was so that you might have him back forever. No longer as a slave, but better than a slave. As a dear brother.' - Philemon 1:15-16

Reflection Question

Is there someone in your life whom God might be calling you to trust again, despite past hurt?

Quote

Trusting God for someone's changed heart often means risking being hurt again. It means opening the door when everything in you just wants to bolt it shut.

Prayer

Lord, give me courage to trust Your work in others' lives more than my own fears. Help me take wise risks for the sake of Your kingdom.