Paul had an unusual ministry outing in Asia. From those who received baptism in the Holy Spirit to those who enjoyed special miracles by touching his aprons, there was no dull moment while he ministered there. However, Paul is seen in our text complaining of the people of Asia turning away from him. With so many exploits done for the people of Asia in the name of the Lord, how could they all have turned away from him? This is a sad commentary on human nature. Most people don’t have permanent friends but interest. When they enjoyed his miraculous ministry, they flocked to him. When he fell on bad times standing trial in defence of the gospel, they fled.

in dealing with desertion…we should not be overtly concerned with those who left; we should focus on those who are still standing by us…don’t press charges…know that God is with you even if the whole world forsook you.

You may have been left in the cold by people you helped one time or the other. You are not alone; that has happened to so many others before you. Three things can be gleaned from the life of the apostle in dealing with desertion. Firstly, we should not be overly concerned with those who left; we should focus on those who are still standing by us. Shortly after Paul complained of desertion, he went on in verse 16 to show how Onesiphorus was a breath of fresh air. He sought for him diligently. Look for your Onesiphorus in all seasons of abandonment. Secondly, don’t press charges. This is explained in 2 Timothy 4:16. When Paul noted that no one was with him at his first trial, he prayed that God would not read it against them. Pressing charges may mean you are still bitter. Finally, know that God is with you even if the whole world forsook you.