Philemon II
Confident of your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say. (Philemon 21 ESV)
Even More
When I do not particularly enjoy a task, or duty, or job, I do what is required, but I tend to do only the bare minimum. This might include doing the dishes, reading instruction manuals, and answering phone messages.
But when I DO enjoy the task, my attitude is very different.
I want to do more than required. Mowing the lawn is like that, for me. Writing a sermon is like that, for me. Preparing a meal for loved ones is like that, for me.
And Paul knows that Philemon views his tasks, particularly the requests being made by his friend and pastor, Paul, with enthusiasm and joy.
Not merely doing enough to squeak by.
But eagerly, gladly, doing more than required.
Sometimes our godly tasks become routine or tedious. Things like daily devotions. Or tithing and almsgiving. Or being patient. Or praying.
Let’s have a MORE attitude.