Explore
19I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you. 20I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. 21For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. 22But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel. 23I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. 24And I am confident in the Lord that I myself will come soon. Philippians 2:19-24
Timothy was definitely committed to trusting Paul but more so seeking to glorify God with his life and obedience. It is worth saying too that the relationship between Paul and Timothy was a good one, and something we can learn from.
Idea 1: Invest The Bible reading I have included here is what fuelled me in writing the book ‘Iron Men’. This idea that Paul had seen in Timothy potential and he was up for investing in the young man’s life. Timothy discovered in Paul a great friend but also a man who was willing to teach Timothy and help him along on his own journey.
‘Like a father to a son, Timothy has served with me in the gospel’. Timothy became a close and trusted mate to Paul, this relationship wasn’t just one way, Timothy stood by Paul, had his back and together they announced Jesus as loud as they could. What might this sort of relational investment look like to you?
Idea 2: Mentor In the book ‘Iron Men’, the idea was to explore how Paul invested in the life of Timothy, and the important role of Paul as a mentor to Timothy. If you want more on that grab the book, but at this point let me ask you some questions:
Are you mentoring anyone? Could you be? Can you think of one bloke you know who needs that sort of support and help? What would stop you?
Idea 3: Be Mentored
The flip side of this is that we are not just effective when we mentor someone else, like Timothy was to Paul, Timothy was able to help, encourage and support Paul loads. Being mentored isn’t easy, it might need a lot of investment of time, energy and honesty. Finding the right bloke can be a challenge too, but again, let me ask you some questions:
Do you want to be mentored? Can you see a need for it in your life? Who might you turn to?
Action
If this study revealed any areas you need to action, do it this week. Tell the bloke, call him or make the first move. Don’t leave it to gather dust for another week.
