“But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, that I also may
be encouraged when I know your state.” Philippians 2:19
Encouraging others is a vital ministry. But Paul’s letter to the Philippians illustrates that it can also be costly.
Even though he was sitting in prison and benefiting from Timothy’s fellowship, Paul planned to send him to minister to the Philippians and learn how they were doing. He chose Timothy because all others focused on themselves rather than on Christ (2:21). A good report from him would encourage Paul (v.19).
Epaphroditus was also a man who practiced selfless encouragement. He was a representative from the Philippian church. While visiting and helping Paul he had become sick and nearly died. His greatest concern was not over his own critical illness, but that his home church had heard about it and he didn’t want them to be unduly distressed (v.26).
We see in Paul, Timothy, and Epaphroditus the secret of true encouragement, self-giving with- out self-pity. It is clearly self-forgetfulness.
Do you want to be an encouraging Christian? Remember, the ultimate source of encourage- ment is not people but God. Go to Him for fresh encouragement then go out and encourage others.
Even if you have nothing else to give, you can give encouragement. Be a bridge builder.
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Garment of Praise
Monthly Insights for Spiritual Growth, Encouragement and Personal Victory.
Oluyemisi Onanuga
Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the New King James Version of the Bible.
Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.”
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