-August 25, 2022-
Good morning, happy Thursday,
“Yet I considered it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, but your messenger and the one who ministered to my need; since he was longing for you all, and was distressed because you had heard that he was sick almost unto death; but God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.”
(Philippians 2:25-27).
Paul loved all the saints so much and especially appreciated his fellow servants who labored with him in the work of the Lord. He often spoke highly of them, honored them, and prayed for them. In today’s text, he extols Epaphroditus and his commitment to Christ and His work. He was a godly servant and close friend of Paul. Paul tells of his serious illness that nearly caused his death. The Philippians had heard of it and were understandably concerned for him and prayed for him.
Epaphroditus was one of those servants of the Lord in the church that was so needed that he was almost indispensable in the Lord’s work. He wore many hats. He was a fellow worker, fellow soldier, messenger, and one who served Paul while he was in prison. Paul needed him so much, yet he humbly sent him to encourage the saints in Philippi. Paul was so thankful that God had mercy on him and raised him from his sickbed to once again serve in the ministry. Paul had other sorrow so that the death of his friend would have added to it.
We also love each other and pray for one another. We need to hold up such men as Epaphroditus, encourage them, pray for them, and honor them. There are times when the helpers need help. This was such a time. Now raised up to full health, he could once again serve others in the work of the Lord. Paul mentions him one more time in Philippians 4:18, “Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God.” He fulfilled his mission of encouragement to the saints and of bringing a gift from the Philippians to Paul in prison.
In Paul’s day, there were no shipping companies, someone had to take things back and forth. It always took a lot of time and effort. These two references are the only two times where he is mentioned, but God knew how much he did for Him. No work for the Lord ever goes unrewarded.
Let us then love, appreciate, encourage, support and help those who serve the Lord, especially those who serve behind the scenes. We need each other as each one has a part in the work of Christ. May we be willing to do whatever God wants, wherever He wants it, and however He wants it.
Have a blessed day serving and supporting in the Lord’s work. Stay safe and healthy.
In His wonderful service,
Dean
Dean Allen's Daily Devotional 