How can we show mercy to others like Onesiphorus in 2 Timothy 1:16?

A Snapshot of Onesiphorus’ Mercy

• “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)

• He visited Paul in prison and “searched diligently” until he found him (v. 17).

• He “refreshed” Paul—lifting the apostle’s spirit and meeting practical needs.

• He stood by Paul when it was risky, refusing to be “ashamed” of the chains.

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Mercy in Action: Practical Ways to Imitate Onesiphorus

• Show up for the hurting

– Visit shut-ins, hospital patients, prisoners (Hebrews 13:3).

– Make the phone call, send the text, write the card.

• Refresh weary believers

– Provide a meal, run errands, offer childcare.

– Speak life-giving words that point to Christ.

• Refuse shame or embarrassment

– Identify openly with brothers and sisters who face ridicule, illness, or scandal.

– Stand beside them physically and verbally.

• Be diligent, not passive

– Seek out those who’ve slipped off the radar; pursue them until found.

– Keep a running list of names to follow up weekly.

• Extend mercy tangibly

– Give generously to meet financial or material needs (Proverbs 19:17).

– Share your home for fellowship or temporary lodging.

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Check Our Attitude: Heart Posture of Mercy

• Compassion over convenience—mercy often interrupts schedules.

• Courage over fear—mercy may link us to unpopular causes.

• Humility over judgment—remember our own need for grace (James 2:13).

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Biblical Encouragement to Keep Going

• “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” (Matthew 5:7)

• “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)

• “May the Lord grant him to find mercy from the Lord on that day!” (2 Timothy 1:18)

Living mercy like Onesiphorus turns ordinary moments into eternal investments and displays the gospel’s warmth to a watching world.