Chapter 2, Verse 27 “Indeed he was ill, near to death. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.”
The Philippians were certainly right to have been worried over their brother and fellow servant. Paul affirms that not only was Epaphroditus sick but that he almost died. We don’t know why the Apostle was unable to heal him but Paul assures us that he was healed by the mercy of God. The power of prayer is never to be underestimated. Apostle or not, the fervent prayer of righteous people are heard by God. He not only hears, He also does.
We understand the burdens weighing Paul down. He is imprisoned which prevents him from doing what he so wants to do. Paul is unable to move among the people, especially his Jewish brethren and teach them the gospel. Because it is his mission to preach the good news his time in jail brings him sorrow. Losing a treasured fellow worker would have greatly added to his sorrow. Paul’s was a small group but a close group. Think how dependent they were on each other.
Task for Today: Today, as we read this verse, would be a good time to think about God’s mercy in our own life. Without a doubt, God has been good to us, our family, and our friends. We have experienced His love and care both personally and as witnesses. Take a moment out of your routine and thank Him for His ever-present mercies.
Philip Dampier's Blog 