Epaphroditus was the model of consideration. We read in Philippians that he was chosen by the Philippian church to go to Paul (under house arrest in Rome) and deliver to him a gift from the church to help support Paul. The distance from Philippi in Northern Greece to Rome in Italy is 800 miles. Epaphroditus travelled this distance – perhaps a 7 week journey on foot. In Rome, he had been ill and near to death, and was concerned that when his church in Philippi heard this news he should go back to them.
Are you considerate of others? Being considerate is a Christ-like quality as Paul writes:
Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone. Titus 3:1-2 [NIV]
Thinking of others' needs ahead of our own is the model we should follow. How are you doing on this front? Take time from your busy day to consider someone else and pray for them or do something kind for them this week.
Lord Jesus, thank you for the example of your life – help me to be considerate of others and not selfish as I go about my daily life. Help me to reach out to someone in need today. Amen.
Memory Verse: I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:11 [NIV]
Dave MacLellan
(based on Saddleback Church resource material)
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