Insight for Today
A Daily Devotional by Pastor Chuck Swindoll

Special People

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Meanwhile, I thought I should send Epaphroditus back to you. He is a true brother, co-worker, and fellow soldier. And he was your messenger to help me in my need. I am sending him because he has been longing to see you . . . . Welcome him in the Lord’s love and with great joy, and give him the honor that people like him deserve. For he risked his life for the work of Christ, and he was at the point of death while doing for me what you couldn't do from far away. (Philippians 2:25–26, 29–30) 

 

I am reminded of three categories of special people and how we are to respond to them.

 

First, there are still a few Timothys left on earth, thank goodness. When God sends a Timothy into our lives, He expects us to relate to him. It is often the beginning of an intimate friendship, rarely experienced in our day of superficial companionship. With a Timothy, you won’t have to force a friendship; it will flow. Nor will you find yourself dreading the relationship; it will be rewarding. When a Timothy comes along, don’t hesitate . . . relate.

 

Second, there may be a modem-day Epaphroditus who comes to your assistance or your rescue. When God sends an Epaphroditus to minister to us, He expects us to respect him. This is the type of person who reaches out when he has nothing to gain and perhaps much to lose . . . who gambles on your behalf for no other reason than love. His or her action is an act of grace. Don’t question it or try to repay it or make attempts to bargain for it. Just accept it. Grace extended in love is to be accepted with gratitude. The best response to an Epaphroditus? Respect.

 

Finally, there is Jesus Christ. Since God sent Christ to take away our sins and bring us to heaven, He expects us to receive Him. If you think a Timothy can mean a lot to you or an Epaphroditus could prove invaluable, let me assure you that neither can compare as a substitute for Jesus. With nail-scarred hands He reaches out to you and waits for you to reach back in faith. I tell you without a moment’s hesitation there is no one you will ever meet, no friend you will ever make, who can do for you what Jesus can do. No one else can change your inner heart. No one else can turn your entire life around. No one else can remove not only your sins but the guilt and shame that are part of that whole ugly package. And now that the two of you have been introduced, only one response is appropriate. Only one. Receive.

 

All of us need a Savior. He awaits your response. The everlasting relief He brings is enough to make us not only laugh again, but laugh forever.