But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, that I also may be encouraged when I know your state. For I have no one like-minded, who will sincerely care for your state. For all seek their own, not the things which are of Christ Jesus. But you know his proven character, that as a son with his father he served with me in the gospel. Therefore I hope to send him at once, as soon as I see how it goes with me. But I trust in the Lord that I myself shall also come shortly. [Philippians 2:19-24 NKJV]
According to the 16th chapter of Acts, Paul met Timothy on his second missionary journey. Paul found in Timothy the the heart and character of a servant of God, and so he invited Timothy to join him on his missionary trips. Their relationship was such that Paul thought of Timothy as a son.
His character was such that Paul said, "I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. [Philippians 2:20 NIV]
What we know about Timothy's character from this passage is this:
- He was sincere
- He cared for the church - that is, the people, not the institution.
- He sought the things of Christ
- He had a proven character
Paul trusted Timothy enough to send him to Philippi in his stead, until he could come himself.
When we look at our own character there are many traits that are a fruit of the Spirit. Such as, "love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control." [Galatians 5:22-23 NKJV] We cannot simply make ourselves more loving, joyful or peaceful. They grow, as fruit, out of our relationship with God.
There are other attributes which are entirely within our control, and it is these for which Paul praises Timothy.
The Pharisees were condemned by Jesus for their hypocrisy. This was an attitude that they chose, rather than surrender themselves to God's truth. It is our own choice whether we will sincerely seek God, or whether we will seek the praise of men.
It is our own choice to care for the people around us, or to selfishly seek our own gain. It is an attitude that we must adopt; to place others before ourselves.
Jesus said, "Seek first the kingdom of God." If you seek material gain before the kingdom, you may become wealthy. But, as Jesus said, "For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?" [Matthew 16:26 NKJV]
You may seek to promote yourself over others. But Jesus said, “So the last will be first, and the first last. For many are called, but few chosen.” [Matthew 20:16 NKJV] And also, “If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all.” [Mark 9:35 NKJV]
The character traits that define the fruit of the Spirit are a part of our character. But they can only grow when we have made the choice to seek the things of Christ.
Our character is proven over time. Whether it is praiseworthy or not depends on our choices. It is easy to be self-deceived and think more highly of ourselves than we ought. Let us ask God to reveal our hearts, so that we may know our own character.
Lord, please reveal my heart to me. If there is any insincerity, I am sorry, and ask Your forgiveness. Please refine my character, not so that I may have a good name, but so that Your name will be honored.
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