Onesimus

10that I appeal to you for my son Onesimus,^b who became my son while I was in chains. 11Formerly he was useless to you, but now he has become useful both to you and to me.

12I am sending him—who is my very heart—back to you.

Thoughts: Onesimus is an example that you don't have to have a lot to be an encouragement.  In fact, often the wealthy who have everything going for them do not know how to handle mortality or problems well.  Those who have handled them can point them to hope in heaven and the hope of better times to come.  Onesimus was a slave who ran away and became a Christian.  Paul was writing to his friend Philemon to welcome him as a brother who has been set free.  

Prayer: Lord, help me to see I can encourage anyone at anytime.