May the Lord show mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, because he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains.

2 Timothy 1:16

When Paul was thrown into a dark Roman dungeon for preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ, many of the Christians he served with deserted him for fear they would be put in prison as well. Clearly Onesiphorus was a true friend and brother in Christ for he came to the jail and refreshed Paul. He may have refreshed him with clothing and food, but probably the most compassionate thing he did for Paul was just to pray with and talk to him. Remember these prisons were smelly, rat infested holes in the ground. It would not have been a pleasant task to go and visit someone there! Onesiphorus, however, had the true Christ-like spirit in him. He was not ashamed of being associated with Paul. This reminds me of Jesus when He walked this earth. He associated with unpopular people as well.

There is a huge lesson for us in this verse. What kind of friend will we be to those Christian brothers and sisters that are hurting and in need?

Are we compassionate to those in our lives who are hurting from whatever chain is binding them? Don’t ever assume someone else is there for them. Lord help us to be the “Onesiphorus” in their life and put a smile on their face by refreshing and comforting them and therefore serving Christ in the process!

Father God, please help me to closely follow Your will for my life. Help me to recognize those in my life who need refreshing and to be the first one there to do so! Thank You for sending Jesus to shed His blood for my sins and for giving me eternal life with You. I give You all glory, honor, and praise this day, Amen!

Brothers and sisters, “hold on”. I know the pain and suffering at times must feel overwhelming. But hold on just a little bit longer and trust in the Lord. He is good and faithful and there to see you through your trials and troubles. Hold on to your faith, hold on to Jesus Christ.