ICS Daily Devotions
Be Like Timothy
One of the greatest biblical examples of a supportive minister is Timothy by the way he served Paul. We should learn to be like Timothy. First, we need to be faithful in the “little” like him. Sometimes people see what they are currently doing as a mere stepping-stone to the greener grass on the other side of the fence. That’s a mistake! We know our calling, and of course, we are heading somewhere and hoping that God will complete it fruitfully. But when it comes to the actual task or job, do not do it half-heartedly! God wants to see your faithfulness to the task like if you were to do it for the rest of your life. Only then He can possibly promote you.
Luke 16:10: He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much.
Faithfulness is one of the greatest assets when working with a leader. It starts with God and extends also to the ministry leaders. He or she needs to trust you in what you have been given. That will enable you to grow and receive more and more responsibility as a servant and disciple of Christ.
Matthew 7:12: Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.
Secondly, be that person. It is connected with faithfullness and commitment to the position where God has placed you for the time being. Timothy worked for Paul faithfully no matter what position was assigned to him. You may even start working as a janitor but the attitude is important. You can think about yourself as a pastor: what kind of janitor would you like to work for you? Be that janitor! Think from the position of the leader and act accordingly
Colossians 3:22-24: Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God. And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.
Thirdly, do your work as unto the Lord. Sometimes we can do the work externally well but we are grumbling internally. No one may notice visibly but God notices! And it can hinder your spiritual progress. It will manifest sooner or later.
Try to find the joy in whatever you do and do it as to the Lord himself. It helps to never forsake the “first love”! Spend time with Jesus and read God’s Word. Personal spirituality and godly character should never be sacrificed on the altar of Christian service. For instance, in pursuit of becoming a great preacher, you may become a poor Christian. The church needs you to be spiritually fit. So consider the good of the church that you are influencing in decision and actions. Be aware of the ultimate reason why you do that you do. Work in harmony with the leaders.
Let us use an example of an athlete. He loves the game of basketball. He is committed to the guys on the team. He is gifted and does what he can to develop and improve his own skills. But he has no intention of cooperating with or respecting the coach of his team. On practical level, that athlete will never excel or be productive. If he is not willing to work with the coach that develops the visions and strategies for the team, he is not going to be an asset.
Become devoted to God, His church, your calling, and the pastor, and you will be further along the road to successful ministry. Do not be discouraged if nothing visibly happens in a long period. Growth takes time!
Jeremiah 17:8: For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, which spreads out its roots by the river, and will not fear when heat comes; but its leaf will be green, and will not be anxious in the year of drought, nor will cease from yielding fruit.
It takes time for a tree to grow. The days pass by and you do not see any difference. It starts small but the tree can be very huge and stable. There is a difference in time. You can grow by regular spiritual discipline. When you pray and read the Scripture, it nourishes the roots like a water and it grows, no matter what the outward circumstances are. Let your root find the water! Then the tree will grow and yield lots of fruit. Be committed, patient and allow time. Timothy did not become a great disciple of Paul overnight. Be like a tree. Grow slow but stable into the glory of Christ!
Series: In Search of a Supportive Minister
