Some men are all smiles, handshakes, jokes and engagement. Others are shy and faithful and watchful. Some have much to say and others little. Some fill a room and others come in unnoticed.
"When Timothy comes, see that you put him at ease among you, for he is doing the work of the Lord, as I am. So let no one despise him. Help him on his way in peace, that he may return to me, for I am expecting him with the brothers." 1 Cor 16:10-11 ESV
What is Paul telling these people about Timothy? Perhaps they could miss Timothy's portion if they weren't told in some way to look out for it. It seems that Timothy was not an alpha man type. Paul made clear to them that Timothy was 'as I am' even if he did not have the same personality.
"Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love." 1 Cor 16:13-14
Eyes open men! Being a man 'in Christ' is not like being one in the world. Strength comes from a different place... vision sees what the world misses... love is the method... love is the action. It is not some hippy-dippy kind of love nor is it the love of a weakling. It is the love of a warrior who has been awakened to righteousness (1 Cor 15:34).
If we walk by sight we will miss the important things.
I love to see a man of God showcase people. When it is done in the right way it is very edifying. Not in some sort of comparison that makes one person look better than another but in a way that communicates that a hidden person, or a visible person, is special to God.
It is grace of course and it is not expected, demanded, or required.
These recommendations go a long way. Especially if they are done in some way that is unrelated to performance of some kind. What God thinks about a person has nothing to do with their performance.
The Father showcased His Son when He said, 'This is my Son is whom I am well pleased.' Christ showcased His disciples. If God opens our eyes to see who someone is in Christ we can showcase them to others. It may be just what those people need to receive a portion that will be vital to their life.
We don't want anyone to be 'despised' (unnoticed) in our lives. We can 'showcase' people in front of others or just one on one. To pause and recognize someone's worth verbally is so needed. Some people never get that from the most important people in their life.
ReplyDeleteI want to be a man who point people to Christ and reveals the Christ in people to others. God help me to be that man!