Support Without Shame

“Support Without Shame” by Kirk Hunt

The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain:

2 Timothy 1:16 KJV

Folks often talk a good game about giving their support.  What happens when helping is inconvenient?  Will they, or you, run risks, physically or otherwise, to help?

Onesiphorus traveled to Nero’s Rome to help Paul.  He brought money and goods to cover the Apostle’s (and guards’ expenses).  More importantly he brought spiritual encouragement and mental reinforcement.

Onesiphorus had to travel great distances only to be frisked by the guards.  Everything they said was heard by the Praetorian Legionnaire chained to Paul.  I doubt there was only one soldier in the room.

Risking arrest himself, Onesiphorus boldly delivered his load of hope, faith and encouragement.  He ministered grace and provision to the Apostle.  He delivered grace and brotherhood despite the jack- sandaled thugs in the room.  If anything, he may have intentionally included the watchers in ministering to the watched.

Who needs your support today?  Go there.  Do what needs to be done.  Ignore the clinking chains.  Try to include the menacing onlookers.

Think:                        Someone needs my support in less-than-ideal circumstances.

Pray:              “Lord, help me to give my support without fear or shame.”

Copyright © November 2011, Kirk Hunt