For I have no one else like-minded who will genuinely care about your interests; all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 2:20-21)
Paul was confined in a Roman prison and was concerned about the believers in Philippi. He could not go and encourage them, so he planned to send Timothy. He described Timothy as his son, who had served with him and had proven character. Paul discipled Timothy, and Timothy had learned. Paul was confident that Timothy would genuinely minister to the people in Philippi.
Paul wrote to the church in Corinth, “Imitate me, as I also imitate Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1). This verse grabs my attention. If someone was watching every aspect of my life, what would they see? Would they see Christ all the time, some of the time, or only once in a while?
It’s interesting that Paul describes Timothy as one who would “genuinely care” about the interests of the Philippian believers. That others would “seek their own interests.” I find this statement sad. How was it that Timothy was the only one whom Paul had confidence in?
If Pastor Matt (or one of the other Harbor pastors) contacted you today and asked you to be a minister of the Gospel to someone in need, how would you respond? Do you live your life in a manner that he would even consider asking you? I find this a sobering question – and a motivating question. I want to live my life – every moment of my life – in a way that honors Jesus and encourages others to follow him. In easy times and in hard times; with believers and with nonbelievers. Do you?
Finally, as we consider happiness, I doubt that Paul would have wanted Timothy to go, if he was going to grumble about the assignment. I expect that Timothy was happy to go and represent Christ to the Philippian church. If you were asked by a pastor to do something, would you find happiness in serving?
Strive to be a genuine, happy disciple.