Pastor Leon’s SOAP: Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer

June 12: 1Kings 12; 2Chronicles 10,11; Philippians 2

Scripture: Philippians (NIV) 2:25-30 29 So then, welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor people like him, 30 because he almost died for the work of Christ. He risked his life to make up for the help you yourselves could not give me.

Observation: While on a mercy mission to Paul from the church at Philippi, Epaphroditus became sick. Surely Paul, through whom God had provided many miraculous healings, prayed for him many times, but he became so sick that he almost died. Paul was obviously so concerned about Epaphroditus that he was greatly relieved when he recovered; Paul sent him back home. Paul writes that God’s mercy to spare his life saved Paul “sorrow upon sorrow.” (vs 27)
Paul did not condemn Epaphroditus for a lack of faith, but commended him for risking his life for the work of Christ. Paul writes about him as though he was wounded in battle and deserved a Purple Heart. The church was instructed to joyfully welcome him back home and to honor people like him.

Application: Epaphroditus was sent by the church of God; he was doing the will of God; he was with the Apostle Paul who had a great healing ministry; yet he became ill and the illness progressed until he almost died! Being in the center of God’s will does not guarantee that I will never face sickness or trouble. I need to be careful to honor such servants of the Lord who experience sickness or trouble.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, check my heart and my attitude when I sail through troubled waters and help me be an encourager to others. Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!