Build something of enduring purpose

1 Thessalonians 5:11 | Image by Peggy und Marco Lachmann-Anke

1 Thessalonians 5:11, ESV
"Therefore encourage one another and build one another up"

In the last part of the mini-series I've called "Be more Paul" I want to look at how we can learn from Paul as he invests in others.

Paul preaches the gospel to kings, rulers, scholars and philosophers. But it is his work with the people he releases into ministry that has the biggest impact on the spread of the gospel. He teaches new Christians in such a way they not only understand the truth of the good news but also the need to demonstrate the love of Jesus to their communities.

He builds teams of equals and releases them to use their gifts. Take a look at Colossians 4. Paul ministers alongside converted Jews, Greeks, males, females, a doctor. And Onesimus. A runaway slave, a thief who has stolen from his master, who somehow, has met Paul, come to faith in Jesus and is serving him as Paul writes.

And what is significant is we don't know Onesimus' background from the letter Paul writes to the the Colossians. Because that is a public letter and will be read out loud in the churches at Colossae and Laodicea. To them Onesimus is described as "our faithful and beloved brother." (Colossians 4:9, ESV.) We only know he was a thief and a slave from the private letter Paul writes to Philemon, Onesimus' master.

Paul pours himself into Onesimus' life, honours, and elevates him. And why wouldn't he since Jesus has already done that?

I don't know who Jesus is bringing alongside you ow but I know you have an opportunity to change they way they feel about themselves and the how others see them simply by the way you invest in them, honour, and elevate them.

Be more Paul. Build something of enduring purpose by pouring your life into other people.

Until next time.

x

PS: I wrote a book on developing resilience. It's getting great reviews and you can buy it here. I'd love to know what you think.