Meeting 8/29/20
Phil. 2:19-24.
Paul is hanging tough in a tough situation that continues on and on. Can you relate? Are you in a situation that remains difficult and challenging? Paul is holding on by having hope in the Lord. That's how we make it, friends. Put your hope in the Lord only. He is your Way. He is the One that changes hearts and situations.
Paul has a main man, Timothy. Who is your main friend? Your bestie? You need someone to cultivate this kind of relationship with. God didn't intend for us to walk alone. Pursue it. It takes investment, commitment, and work. But it's worth it.
Paul cares about these people deeply. He wants to discover that they are keeping the faith. He wants to hear good news about them and thus be encouraged himself. There is a synergistic effect in play here that still applies today. There is something special about believers inspiring and encouraging each other along the journey. I love seeing or hearing about God at work in other's lives. I look for it and long for it.
Paul makes a unique distinction about Timothy. He is genuine. He is concerned. He truly cares about these people. He considers them more than he considers himself. That is Christlike character. On the contrary, most people look out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.
Here's an interesting nugget: Paul makes a distinction that Timothy has proved himself over time. He was like a son working with his father, serving with Paul in the work of the gospel. I like that picture of a son working with his father, where teaching and learning are taking place in a good relationship. It's something we should aim for with our kids. If you're not engaged in this capacity, take a step in that direction today. Share your heart with them. Go for it today.
Paul's situation is uncertain. He doesn't know how it will turn out. None of us really do. The future is in God's hands. It's for Him to know and for us to let go. But we are to hope in the Lord. Paul hopes to be able to send Timothy soon. We need to kindle our hope in God, my friends. We need to believe positively about our situations. God is our Way to not only to survive, but to thrive. I'm reminded of the passage in Isaiah 40:31. "Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." I don't know about you, but I needed to hear that this morning. May we continually put our hope in the Lord, again and again. He is our Hope.
