Timothy: Servant of Christ Jesus
"But I hope, in the Lord Jesus, to send Timothy to you shortly, so that I also may be encouraged when I learn of your condition. For I have no one else of kindred spirit who will genuinely be concerned for your welfare. For they all seek after their own interests, not those of Christ Jesus. But you know of his proven character, that he served with me in the furtherance of the gospel like a child serving his father. Therefore I hope to send him immediately, as soon as I see how things go with me; and I trust in the Lord that I myself will also be coming shortly." Philippians 2:19-24 NASB
Series: Philippians: Reading the Bible for Spiritual Transformation
Devotional: 2 of 5
"Servant of Christ Jesus."
"Kindred spirit."
"Genuinely concerned for the welfare of the believers in Philippi."
These are just a few of the ways that Paul describes Timothy in his letter to the church at Philippi. Timothy's character and commitment were evident by his actions, which led to the trust Paul placed in him. In time, Timothy would become Paul's protege, soaking up all of the words and wisdom that the Lord Jesus had entrusted to Paul. Timothy laid down his life for the sake of the Gospel - serving and caring for Paul, like a son with a father. (See Philippians 2:19-24 NASB)
If we are willing to take a few extra moments to meditate on today's Scripture (See Philippians 2:19-24 NASB), several themes vital to the life of an apprentice of Jesus will begin to bubble up to the surface. Here are two:
1- Service: Timothy's life portrays the character of a servant. Regularly setting aside his own comfort and security, he made incredible sacrifices for the advancement of the Gospel. Like Timothy and Paul, how might Christ be calling us to serve the people around us? As we move throughout our day, there will certainly be a multitude of opportunities to step out of our comfort zone, set aside our agenda and preferences, and serve the needs of our friends, family, neighbors, and those who are helpless and hurting in our communities.
2- Mentorship: Timothy's relationship with Paul highlights the importance of mentorship. As apprentices of Jesus, we were never meant to pursue life with God alone. Paul writes that he "has no one like" Timothy, who, "like a son with a father," has served alongside Paul for the sake of the Gospel (See Philippians 2:20 ESV). Certainly, Christ is our ultimate teacher, but there is much we can learn from those who have faithfully followed Him. With this in mind, who is intentionally mentoring you in the ways of Jesus? Additionally, for those who have been following Jesus for years, even decades, be on the lookout for those who are newer to the faith. How can you share your life with God with them?
Today, we would do well to take a closer look at our calendars. Does how we spend our time reveal that serving and mentoring others in our community is a priority?
OnThe3rdDay Devotionals
Devotionals that illustrate Biblical principles in a simple and short format that can be applied to your everyday life.
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