4 x 6 Plan | Read: Luke 2:1-21 & Colossians 4:7-18
I have sent him to you for this very purpose—to let you know how we are doing and to encourage you.. (Colossians 4:8)
Sometimes, encouragement comes through a hug and a home cooked meal. Other times, we find courage as we lock eyes and hear stories of God’s faithfulness. And often, courage comes when the right word, the right prayer lands with all the force and power of hearing from God Himself.
To encourage is to spur on, stir up, to give courage — all things that are hard to do from afar. This is what Paul wanted for the church in Colossae (Colossians 4:8).
Paul wanted more for them than a halftime pep talk. He wanted them to feel and know how loved and precious they are. So Paul did what God did. He sent them his own.
Tychicus and Onesimus were Paul’s beloved brothers. When the church needed encouragement, Paul sent his community because some things can only be transferred through real, face-to-face interaction.
We were made for community. To share our lives with one another and serve alongside one another like Paul, Tychicus, and Onesimus did. No one lives on mission for God alone. Even Jesus sent his disciples out two by two (Mark 6:7).
Who are the people you laugh harder with than anyone else? The people who know you and get this Jesus-following thing because they’re doing it, too? Who will remind you who you are and how much God loves you? Who will stand by you on your good days and your worst days?
We all need friends like this. People who we would call our “faithful and beloved brothers.” Who are those people for you? There are a few key groups for me like a group that eats lunch together on Thursdays..or the the two knuckleheads I work out with each week. I have met with two guys every week early in the morning at McDonald’s for over five years. I also have a small group of great friends that meet in my home (or the pickleball courts) once a week. All of those groups and relationships are critical for me, but for years I neglected it because I was too busy.
Names might be filling your mind as you read that list of questions. But if you’re wondering where to find friendships like Paul had with Tychicus and Onesimus, consider joining a group (Groups will be officially starting back up at the beginning of September). Groups are where we find a spiritual family. Where we go beyond “How was your day?” to “How are you, really?” Groups are where friends become family, and we find the encouragement our hearts need.
Action Steps
Bible: What is God showing me? What am I going to do about it?
Bless: Serve one person through word, action, or gift today.
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