How do you know if a person has the potential to be great? Let me introduce you to Timothy.
Acts 16:1-5 Paul came also to Derbe and to Lystra And a disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a Jewish woman who was a believer, but his father was a Greek, and he was well spoken of by the brethren who were in Lystra and Iconium. Paul wanted this man to go with him; and he took him and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in those parts, for they all knew that his father was a Greek. Now while they were passing through the cities, they were delivering the decrees which had been decided upon by the apostles and elders who were in Jerusalem, for them to observe. So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.
Immediately we learn of Timothy's mother, giving her a place of honor. She was leaving a legacy of her parenting by the character that was evident in Timothy. Are you raising up and training your children the way they should go? Do you build in them a confidence in scripture and their faith so that even at a young age they would be willing to stand for what they believe?
Second, we find that he was a man of reputation. While I know it would be great if we didn't have to worry about what other people think of us, truth is, our reputations help tell our story. The way we choose to love, forgive and interact with our neighbors, co-workers and friends tell people a story of who we are.
Last but not least we get a glimpse of Timothy's willingness to sacrifice. Because the Law has been fulfilled by Christ he didn't need to be circumsised. Timothy understood the mission field he was being called to. He didn't have to in order to fulfill any law but did it to be in the world he was ministering to. Timothy didn't want to give anyone a reason to turn from the Truth he was sharing so he chose to sacrifice. What are you willing to sacrifice in order to be active in the mission God has called you to?
Timothy's character was rewarded with the strength and growth in the church.
Heavenly Father,
Reveal to me Lord the character and reputation you wish to see in my life. Show me father the mission field you bring me to and show me the ways I can better be a minster. Show me the places I need to sacrifice. Lord, I desire to love and serve you for what you have given me in grace. Remind me Father that when I proclaim your name, I am representing you. ~In Jesus Holy Name
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