At the very beginning of 2008 I challenged the FCC faithful to identify three important people in their lives this year - a Timothy, a Barnabas, and a Paul. Anybody remember that? I explained that all of us need this trio in order to grow and mature as modern-day Jesus followers. Let me explain.A Timothy is a person that we pour our lives into. Usually a Timothy is a younger believer who needs guidance, coaching and encouragement. They are genuinely excited about their new lives in Christ; however, they lack that personal investment (mentorship) that only a seasoned believer can provide. We all need a Timothy in our lives.
A Barnabas is that person with the gift of encouragement - a commodity we all need to survive and thrive. These are those folks you can call on any time of the day or night for a cup-full of assurance and a heart-felt prayer. They are the amazing folks who sometimes see more in you than you see in you! We all need a Barnabas in our lives.
A Paul is a seasoned veteran of the faith-walk trenches. They are tenacious students of the Word of God, have fruitful prayer-lives, are deeply embedded in the life and service of the church, and are always in-season with the fruits of the Spirit. Likewise, they have a desire to reach out to younger believers and help them along the path of righteousness. We all need a Paul in our lives.
As I mention regularly from the platform, I always preach to myself first. My Paul and 'Father in the Faith'(Paul Neal) lives 3,000 miles away and has been declining in health in recent years. I realized that I was deficient in the area of local 'Pauls'. After prayer and patience the Lord graciously brought into my life and ministry Roger Gibson (veteran pastor with Stadia) and Rick Craig (pastor with FCC-Napa)- two amazing older brothers who have walked where I walk, who love me, reach out to me, pray for me and continuously challenge me to higher levels of faith and discipline. So, I'm excited to say, I've got my 'trio'.
How about you?
Do you have someone to help along in their younger or weaker faith? Do you have someone who elevates your soul and continuously reminds you that you can make it? Lastly, do you have a person with some miles on their spiritual odometer helping you become the person God created you to become?
My challenge stands!
I Love You!
In the Fight,
Steve
3 comments:
we all need somebody
What great advice!
Thanks for the reminder. You're right, it is so important to have all three of those. I'm always up for a good challenge. It's on!
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