MONDAY September 16, 2024
A Fellow Brother in Arms
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.
Philippians 2:25-26
Remember, Paul had heard that the Philippians were murmuring, complaining, and causing division among themselves. He decided that the best thing to do was to send two faithful, fellow brethren to them––young Timothy and Epaphroditus. They were men whose characters were proven and tried.
Notice the many references Paul used to describe his dear friend Epaphroditus––brother, fellow worker, fellow soldier, and messenger. There was a comradeship between them––he was a fellow brother-in- arms. They worked together for the Gospel’s sake. Epaphroditus’ mission was two-fold––to bring Paul a monetary gift for his needs, and to stay with him and minister to him personally. In the church of Philippi, Epaphroditus was much loved. News reached them that he had become sick and had almost died, which caused them to be distressed.
We need people like Epaphroditus in the church. Think about your fellow brothers and sisters in Christ for a moment. In their times of great need, they could do with some encouragement. What about Christians who have become elderly and have been placed in a convalescent home for their care? Older people can feel abandoned––alone. They become isolated. Without visitors, they feel forgotten.
Can you become their Epaphroditus? Do you have a heart to minister to the elderly in their final days? Take time to show them friendship, read the Scriptures to them, and pray for them. They will see that you really do care for and love them.
Do all the good you can; to all the people you can; in all the ways you can; and as long as ever you can.
~D.L. Moody~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
