The apostle Paul wrote a short, very personal letter to a friend he had led to faith in Jesus Christ. He appealed to Philemon to forgive a bondservant who had run away from him. With humility, Paul writes to him as a fellow worker and fellow soldier for the Gospel. It is because of Philemon's spiritual character and reputation as someone who is distinguished for his love and faith that Paul knows his appeal will be heard. Philemon's example as a source of "refreshing" sets a standard for us as believers, and causes us to ask important, direct questions to evaluate how much we are a person who strengthens and encourages others.