PASTORS' DAILY DEVOTIONAL
May
14

Raise Up Timothy’s!

Rod Shimabukuro

Scripture
[5]For this reason, when I could bear it no longer, I sent to learn about your faith, for fear that somehow the tempter had tempted you and our labor would be in vain. (1 Thessalonians 3:5 ESV)
Observation
Paul sent Timothy to establish and exhort the church in their faith. There seem to be an apprehension in Paul’s spirit about how the disciples in Thessalonica were doing, since they were being treated and tested by those opposing the gospel.

I can feel Paul’s emotional distress - having invested in the life and birthing of the church. Out of love and care for the disciples, it’s as if he had to find out - how his kids were doing. Paul knew of the kinds of pressures and trials the Christians were facing and since they were young in faith, he wanted to be sure they were not straying because of the influences of satan the tempter.
Application
What jumps out in my heart is my concern for young Christians - experiencing the attacks and pains of the tempter - satan. It’s so satisfying and rewarding to know new believers are being cared for. I would love to have a bunch of Timothy’s to send to them - to check on, establish and encourage their faith.

Real life trials and opposition for non Christians can easily discourage their hearts. People get disheartened when their foundation is not yet established.

I want to help raise up more Timothy’s - more men and women who will come alongside young Christians to encourage and establish their faith in Jesus.
Prayer
Dear Spirit of God, Would you work in the hearts of people in our church to become disciple makers. To come alongside new and needy Christians who need to know and grow in the Truth of who You are through Your Holy Word! Raise up “Timothy’s” - and use me in the process as You see fit. Give me Wisdom O Lord - to invest in the people, leaders, shepherds you call me to invest in!

Devotions for May 14

1 Chronicles 22,23,24
1 Thessalonians 3

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