“For this perhaps is why he was parted from you for a while, that you might have him back forever.” – Philemon 1:15
When we experience frustrations and disappointments, we seldom think that perhaps God is planning to use them for a greater good. And yet, He often does. By nature, we’re so focused on the here and now, that it’s hard for us to trust in a bigger picture and greater good we can’t yet foresee. We must learn to cultivate the supernatural peace of the Spirit over the natural response of our flesh.
Paul helps us see God’s big-picture plan at work in this verse. Onesimus had run away from Philemon, but that turned out to be so he could meet Jesus through Paul. A temporary frustration resulted in eternal fellowship, all to the glory of God. Likewise, in the book of Acts, chapter 15 describes an argument about traveling with John Mark that divided Paul from Barnabas. However, by the end of his ministry, Paul was fully reconciled to Mark and considered him very important to his ministry. Such are the mysteries of God’s good will and plan as it unfolds across years and centuries!
Remember this whenever you experience a setback, defeat, or relational break that’s disappointing, frustrating, or downright maddening. Try to release those feelings. Trust that God can work any situation to His glory and pray earnestly that will happen. Try not to be too specific about how it happens – leave that to God. He’s more creative than us. Simply pray and trust that God’s handling the big picture and it’s beautiful! #FollowJesus