I have
no one like him who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare. Phil. 2.20
In this short
sentence Paul tells much about Timothy. He rightly suggests Timothy’s
uniqueness (no one like him) for, indeed, we are all unique. Yet I sense
that Timothy is not only unique but also special to Paul - there is no one else just like Timothy
for Paul.
Paul then shares
something of Timothy’s nature and character with us. He will be genuinely
concerned for the welfare of the Philippians. I am impacted by the word “genuinely”
in this context. I have seen, sadly even in Christian circles, concern shown
but then deflected by a change in circumstance, focus or opportunity. Genuine
concern does not waver. It is constant. It is true, and it is never withheld.
I like the sound
of Timothy. I think Paul has been blessed to know him as a disciple and as a
friend.
It is always good
to know friends that are trustworthy and caring. I have such friends myself and
I pray that I am also such a friend to them. The world is in as much need of caring
people today as ever it was. I pray that the Christian community will show the
way here. And may it be as I discern Timothy to be – without guile or
self-centredness, rather with the love and enabling of the Father.
Almighty God,
You are the fount of love. I thank You for
the person of Timothy. May I be like him in trustworthiness and genuine concern
for others.
I pray for believers everywhere that we may
show love and compassion to the world. May we be seen to be different, in the
most wonderful way. Hallelujah! Amen.
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