16 May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, because he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains.
2 Timothy 1:16
Refreshed + Unashamed
As a reminder, Onesiphorus (Ὀνησίφορος, Onēsiphoros, “profit bringer”) is an Ephesian friend of Paul who is mentioned only twice, both in 2 Timothy.Yesterday we highlighted Paul's plea to Timothy to HOLD ON + GUARD what he had obtained in Christ Jesus. Further, Paul provided an example of someone who had failed at this task (Phygelus and Hermogenes). Today, we are introduced to our main character of the week, Onesiphorus, who is the picture of faithfulness! In verse 16, Paul offers a blessing to the household of Onesiphorus because of his faithfulness. Paul speaks affectionately of his diligent, unselfish service to him. In particular, Paul highlights two aspects of Onesiphorus's faithfulness:
- He often REFRESHED me.
Refreshed is the Greek word (ἀναψύχω, anapsycho) which means to provide relief from obligation or trouble, or to give someone a breathing space, to revive, or refresh. Onesiphorus put wind into Paul's sails. Onesiphorus was a breath of fresh air that gave Paul life and encouragement when he needed it most. Paul alludes to this in his second comment about Onesiphorus:
2. He was NOT ASHAMED of my chains.
Paul's imprisonment and the stigma attached to it did not faze Onesiphorus from visiting Paul and being associated with him. Instead he continued his faithful ministry without hesitation. Onesiphorus was not concerned about losing status or the perception of people, he cared about ministering to his friend in need!So, what would it look like to REFRESH the people you interact with today? What would it look like to REFRESH your spouse? What would it look like to REFRESH your kids? Or REFRESH your co-workers?Similarly, what would it look like to do this without hesitation? What would it look like to care for the people in your life and not be ashamed about any stigma that may be attached to it?Onesiphorus is a picture of faithfulness in how he refreshed Paul, no matter the cost!
