1 Timothy 4:16
Sometimes I like to just look into the faces of people around me - sometimes into their eyes and into their soul. There is a lot to see if we just take a moment to be aware.
Today God is putting something on my heart for those who may read this. It's for those who give and give and give some more. I know what that's like. It can be so rewarding, but it can also run you down.
I've been married to a wonderful and beautiful woman for over 14 years. We've been a couple for even longer than that. For many of those years, my beautiful bride has struggled with an illness that pulls her out of touch with her friends and family for months at a time. I've spent a lot of time caring for her as well as our son. They are both truly wonderful gifts of God to me! I never expected God to bring such wonderful people into my life. When times have been tough I also never expected those close to me to tell me they would encourage me and support me if I decided to walk away. I can not believe that, but it is a symptom of the world we live in today. Honestly, I blame myself for that "support." You're wondering why now, and I'm about to tell you.
In 1 Timothy 4:16, Paul is admonishing or encouraging Timothy to take care of himself. Timothy, at this time, was pastoring a large church and it demanded much of his time and much of him. So much so that he got lost in his calling and was beginning to neglect his own spiritual needs. We don't have to be a pastor of a church to learn from this.
As a husband, and as a parent, like Timothy I was consumed with caring for those in my charge. It took a lot out of me. I know it takes a lot out of you too. Before I neglect to mention it, I must add that my wife and son have always meant the world to me, despite the cost. I, at times, have been fortunate enough to see God's love for them. When I had nothing left, He showed me their value, and His love for them, and it would make my cry. I have been so burned out that I have wanted to give up, but my Father showed me, at just the right time, that I should keep fighting and keep pressing on and never give up. It's easy to give up - but listen for the reason not to! Stand out from society and be different. It IS worth it. It IS what The Father is calling us to.
Why did I even get to the point that those close to me would say what they did? What did they see in me that caused their comments? They saw a man - a person who forgot to take care of himself. As a caregiver, as a leader, it is easy to do. They saw someone run down, tired, ready to give up. I am so thankful for the glimpses God gave me and I pray you see them in your own lives too.
I have never given up. I have never walked away. God has been my strength when I had none of my own left.
Today, like Paul encouraged Timothy, I encourage and implore you to take care of your spiritual needs no matter what is going on around you. I pray for grace when you (and I) fail at this, but even so encourage us to take the time we need to seek our Father. God's grace has keep my family together despite my neglect of taking care of myself. It doesn't have to come to that for you if you just take the time to seek our Father, to be encouraged, to be built up in strength by Him.
Take care of yourself so you can take care of those God has put into your lives. They are truly a treasure. Don't let them down. Don't give up. Stay steadfast in love.
Please don't consider yourself a failure even if that is what you see in your life or in yourself. Please don't give up, even if that is what you feel or even if those you love and respect suggest you do. Giving up or quitting is never God's best for you or those you are in charge of. Take this moment, and this word, as a time to reflect. Like Paul encouraged Timothy, I also encourage you to take care of yourself so you can continue to fight the good fight.
Until the end and beyond,
Your brother in Christ who is our Savior.
Ed
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