"Do It or Else" Attitude

If you are looking for the posts about

God's Amazing Blessing Announcement—I'm moving!

here's the link to the first Part: 

http://createapositiveday.blogspot.com/2015/05/announcement-part-1-im-moving.html

Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.

There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—

and God took care of each and every one! 

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This post is the continuation of my study of Philemon.  

Therefore, though I have abundant boldness in Christ to charge you to do what is fitting and required and your duty to do,  Philemon 1: 8 (AMP)

Render: Although I have abundant freedom [boldness, or. even license] in Christ to enjoin upon thee that which is fitting. It was only in Christ, and by his authority as an apostle, that he could claim to come between a slave and his master. Secular warrant for doing so he had none. Such authority and license, however, he would not use on this occasion. He prefers to rely wholly on the respect and personal attachment felt towards him by Philemon, for the granting of his request, which he now proceeds to state. 

The Pulpit Commentaries

How many times have I "demanded" someone do something because I know what God's Word says? In Philemon 1:8, Paul although he could DEMAND, based on God's Word that Philemon do something, Paul rather would ask Philemon (vs 9). 

Often we reach a conclusion on a matter LONG before someone else comes to that same conclusion. The "Do it or else" attitude may get immediate results, but the heart of the person, isn't changed into knowing and learning the truth longterm. If we just step back and share God's Truth, often that person can then learn and make the right choice based on what they know and learn. 

Paul because of who he was, an Apostle, and what he know, God's Truth, knew it was the RIGHT thing for Philemon to do—Paul steps back and says.... but that's verse 9. 

When a heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG), it teaches one when to come along side another and gentle teach them God's Truth, rather than demand that they obey. Encouragement and teaching done in love and trust produces a much longer desired response, rather than the "Do it or else" attitude. 

Special Assignment

 "I, Paul, have been sent on special assignment by Christ as part of God’s master plan." Colossians 1:1 (MSG)

"From Paul, an ·apostle [messenger] of Christ Jesus. ·I am an apostle because that is what God wanted […by the will of God]."  Colossians 1:1 (EXB)

Special assignment by Christ. Because that is what God wanted. His will. 

I like that concept... special assignment! Makes me think back to that old TV show, "Mission Impossible". They'd get an special assignment:

"Your mission, Jim, should you decide to accept it, is to ............ . As always, should you or any of your IM Force be caught or killed, the secretary will disavow any knowledge of your actions. This tape will self-destruct in five seconds. "

Christ has a special assignment for me and if I decide to accept it, unlike on "Mission Impossible", Christ will not "disavow any knowledge of me or my actions." I do like that God chose a SPECIAL ASSIGNMENT for Paul, and yes, for me too. 

So, as I go about my day, I need to remember that I'm on a "special assignment" from God. And if I fulfill my "special assignment, then the day will be a positive day!