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Devotions based on week 6 of Joy in the Journey: Friendship (WATCH HERE)

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Philippians 2:28-30 Therefore I am all the more eager to send him, so that when you see him again you may be glad and I may have less anxiety. 29 Welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor men like him, 30 because he almost died for the work of Christ, risking his life to make up for the help you could not give me. 

Heroes deserve honor.

After a devastating flood, tornado, or hurricane stories of heroism arise of individuals who risked their lives to rescue others.  Many heroes make it out alive.  Others give their life in sacrifice to others.  Our armed forces are filled with stories of heroes who risked or gave their lives to ensure the safety of others and the security of our nation.

Heroes deserve honor.

Every hero has loved ones that care about them.  At times family and friends wish their hero wouldn’t risk their life and spend time worrying about them and concerned for their well being.

When a hero returns safely, they are welcomed warmly.

A godly friend is a hero.  A godly friend is willing to risk their life and reputation to ensure the safety and well being of their friends.

Epaphroditus was a friend to Paul and fellow Gospel minister.  He risked his life to serve Paul and share Jesus.  Paul was ready to send him back to Philippi to bring comfort to the Philippian hearts.  One can imagine the joy and relief the Philippians would have as Epaphroditus walked through the door!

We live in a world that celebrates platform, recognition, and fame. Social media praises the influencers, culture applauds the loudest voices, and even the church can sometimes focus more on popularity than quiet perseverance. But Paul says: honor people like Epaphroditus.

Not because they are flashy, but because they are faithful.

Not because they are gifted, but because they are willing.

Not because they lead thousands, but because they will serve one in need.

A godly friend is a hero.

They are faithful.

They are willing to help.

They quietly serve the need.

They are courageous.

They are sacrificial.

They model the heart of Jesus to the people in their lives.

They are worthy of honor.

A godly friend is a hero.

May God’s Spirit enable you to be a friend of honor and give honor to your friends!

 

Apply: Take time to honor a godly friend in your life that has sacrificed much to be a blessing to you.  Resolve to be a friend of honor by being willing to sacrifice for you friend.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for the example of Epaphroditus and the reminder that faithfulness matters more than fame. Forgive me when I seek recognition instead of humble service. Teach me to honor those who serve others with quiet strength and Christlike sacrifice. Help me become someone who risks, loves, and gives like You. In Your name, Amen.

Devotions based on week 6 of Joy in the Journey: Friendship (WATCH HERE)

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Philippians 2:26–28 “For he longs for all of you and is distressed because you heard he was ill. Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow. Therefore I am all the more eager to send him, so that when you see him again you may be glad and I may have less anxiety.” 

“Don’t worry about me, tell me how you are doing.”

Have you heard this from a friend or relative who has a very serious illness?  Somehow in the midst of their challenge, they are still more concerned about others than themselves.

In fact, at times, individuals choose not to share their illness or challenge with people they care about because they don’t want those people to worry or be concerned about them.

We can banter about whether this is the right thing to do or not, but it is a strong characteristic of a godly friend who continues to hold the interest of others, even when they are going through challenges in life themselves. 

In these verses, the Apostle Paul is speaking of Epaphroditus, a faithful servant and companion in the gospel.  Epaphroditus had become ill and as a result almost died. This event impacted Paul and also word made it back to Philippi and the Christians there were concerned for his well being (after all, he had traveled to Rome on their behalf to care for Paul.)

Not only was Epaphroditus willing to sacrifice to travel to Rome, but he continued to serve Paul, even in the midst of a severe illness.

Epaphroditus’ dedication is commendable.  He continued to serve his friend Paul, even when he wasn’t feeling well.

God had intervened.  “But God had mercy on him.”

Have you ever felt like God preserved a person to be your friend because you need him or her in your life for a while yet?  It seems like God preserves Epaphroditus’ life because he knows Paul needs help from him AND the Philippian Christians needed to hear from him.

Remember that God is always the orchestrator behind godly friendships. God knew Paul’s vulnerability and knew that he needed Epaphroditus. It would have been “sorrow upon sorrow” if Paul had lost Epaphroditus.  God preserved him. 

Again we see in Epaphroditus a compelling portrait of what it means to be a godly friend. Epaphroditus was distressed not primarily for himself, but because others were worried about him. His heart was outward-facing, concerned for the peace and comfort of fellow believers. In his suffering, his thoughts turned to others, a rare and Christ-like quality.

A godly friend, then, is one who is both compassionate and transparent. They carry the burdens of others and allow others to carry theirs. They are unafraid to enter into the mess of life, not to fix, but to stand with, to pray, to encourage, and to reflect Christ’s love.

Godly friends walk side by side through challenges and rejoice hand in hand when the Lord delivers from that challenge.  The blessing is God allows Christian friends to serve in both roles:  To walk with us through challenges and rejoice for us when the challenge is lifted by a merciful God. 

 

Application: Check Your Compassion: Are you more concerned about your own image, comfort, or convenience than you are about the wellbeing of others? A godly friend learns to put others first, not to earn favor with God, but in response to the mercy they’ve already received.

Prayer: Lord, give us a heart like Epaphroditus who, in spite of his failing health, kept you and your people at the center of his heart.  Allow us to always be a godly friend who carries the burdens of others, trusting you are carrying our burden for us!  AMEN

Devotions based on week 6 of Joy in the Journey: Friendship (WATCH HERE)

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Philippians 2:25 I also considered it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, coworker, and fellow soldier, as well as the one you sent to serve me in my need.

In this single verse, the Apostle Paul gives us a rich picture of what it means to be a godly friend. Epaphroditus, though relatively unknown in Scripture, is held in the highest regard by Paul. His introduction in Philippians 2:25 is filled with terms that reflect the deep spiritual value of friendship rooted in Christ. Paul calls him “my brother, co-worker, and fellow soldier,” and reminds the Philippians that he was their chosen messenger, sent to care for Paul in his need.

How would you be described as a friend?  How would you describe your friends? 

As we seek to grow in our understanding of what it means to be godly friend, these four descriptors are certainly worth focusing on.

1. A Godly Friend Is a Brother

Paul first calls Epaphroditus a brother. The bond that brought Paul and Epaphroditus together was the blood of Jesus.  Rooted in Christ, their relationship shared membership in the family of God by faith in Jesus.  To be sure, the blessing of having a Christian friend is seeing them as a family member, a brother or sister in Christ.  

What does this mean for a friendship?  We get to love them with the deep love that only family can share.  Family members are committed to one another.  Family members are there for each other.  Children of God value and treasure a relationship that shares the common connection to the cross of Christ.  They walk with you not because of what you can offer them, but because you are both children of God.  Like Solomon says in Proverbs 17:17: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”

2. A Godly Friend Is a Co-Worker in the Gospel

When we share brotherhood in the family of God, we share together the work of God. Epaphroditus was a partner in gospel work. He was an encouragement to Paul.  He helped to share the Gospel and nurture the faith of those that heard the Gospel.  He was there to support, uplift, and work alongside Paul for the sake of the Gospel.  Friendship in Christ means a focus on the work of Christ.  We get to encourage one another to serve God, to stay in the Word, and to pursue spiritual growth as well as share the Gospel and point people to Jesus.  

It’s why Paul could say of all his brothers and sisters in Christ at Philippi (Philippians 1:3-5), “3 I thank my God every time I remember you. 4 Every time I pray for all of you, I always pray with joy, 5 because of your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now.”

3. A Godly Friend Is a Fellow Soldier

A soldier stands in the trenches. He fights for something bigger than himself. To be a “fellow soldier” means that Epaphroditus was battle-tested, resilient, and dependable. A godly friend doesn’t run when things get hard. They pray, stand, and fight beside you even when life is difficult.  Godly friends do hard things for others. “Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 2:3).

4. A Godly Friend Serves Sacrificially

Paul finishes by saying that Epaphroditus was the one “you sent to take care of my needs.” That word serve implies personal sacrifice. The journey from Philippi to Rome was over 800 miles by foot and ship. Yet, Epaphroditus was willing to risk his health to travel to assist Paul while he was imprisoned. That’s not casual friendship. It’s Christ-like love in action.  Godly friends sacrifice when the need is real.  They are willing to put their own needs and physical well-being aside to help a friend in need.  As Jesus said and then modeled, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13).

A godly friend is one who walks with you in God’s truth, stands with you in the storms of life, and points each other to Jesus.

 

Apply: Consider how Paul described Epaphroditus.  Which characteristic presents the greatest opportunity for you?  What is one thing you can do today to become a better friend?

Prayer: Father, thank You for the gift of godly friendships. Teach me to be like Epaphroditus, to love like family, serve with purpose, fight with faith, and care with compassion. Help me to be the kind of friend who builds others up in Christ. Strengthen my relationships and use them for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Devotions based on week 6 of Joy in the Journey: Friendship (WATCH HERE)

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Philippians 2:22–24 “But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel. I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. And I am confident in the Lord that I myself will come soon.” (NIV)

Before World War II, Dwight D. Eisenhower was a relatively unknown U.S. Army officer. He graduated from West Point in 1915 and served in various peacetime posts, often overshadowed by more prominent names. Despite his abilities, he hadn’t seen combat during World War I and spent many years in staff positions. For decades, he labored in relative obscurity, known for his competence but not yet tested in crisis.

That all began to change when World War II broke out.

In 1941, General George Marshall recognized Eisenhower’s strategic brilliance and calm under pressure. Eisenhower was promoted rapidly, first to brigadier general, then major general. He showed the character and capability to handle complex operations. His planning during the North Africa campaign (Operation Torch) proved decisive.

But it was only after proving himself in these operations, through rigorous planning, servant leadership, and his ability to unify Allied forces, that Eisenhower was chosen for the most critical role of the war: Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force in Europe.

That role culminated in leading the D-Day invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944—the largest amphibious assault in history. The success of D-Day marked the beginning of the end for Nazi Germany and cemented Eisenhower as one of the most effective military leaders in history.

Like Timothy, Eisenhower didn’t leap into leadership overnight. He spent years serving faithfully in roles that seemed small. But his proven character in moments of challenge opened the door for greater influence.

In Philippians 2:22, Paul says of Timothy, “You know that he has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel.”

In life, especially in the church or in spiritual leadership, God often works the same way. He shapes leaders in the hidden places first in service, obedience, and humility. When character is proven, trust follows.

This is true of godly friendships too.  God is using each situation to refine you into a person of godly character to be a godly servant to all.  A friend is one who is reliable, trustworthy…proven.

Unfortunately, we all struggle with a broken character because of sin.  We need God’s Spirit to mold our mind, our heart, and our action to mirror the love, grace and forgiveness that Jesus has won for us.  

At the heart of Timothy’s proven character was a heart that had been tested and refined by the Spirit of God.  The same is true for us.  To be a godly friend is to continue to invite the Spirit of God to mold our character into the likeness of Jesus.  As this happens often and regularly, it can, by God’s grace, be said of us, “That is a friend of proven character.”

 

Apply: Like Timothy, grow your character over time. It’s not about being noticed. I’s about being faithful in the ordinary.  What opportunities are on your schedule today where God can use them to refine your heart, mind and character?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are the faithful servant who never failed. Thank You for giving Your perfect life for me. Forgive my inconsistency and selfishness. Shape in me a character like Timothy’s who was faithful, caring, and centered on You. Help me serve others not for recognition, but out of love. Build in me a life that reflects Your grace. Amen.

Devotions based on week 6 of Joy in the Journey: Friendship (WATCH HERE)

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Philippians 2:19 I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, so that I too may be cheered when I receive news about you. 20 To be sure, I have no one else like him, who will be genuinely concerned about your welfare. 21 For, the others all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.

We live in a time when friendship can feel shallow.  Friends are defined by a quick “follow” on facebook, an emoji, or passing acquaintances. Interactions are brief looking at digital images or AI generated responses to your posts.  We believe that the 100 people who respond to our birthday reminder can count as friends and perhaps feel like we are valued by the number likes our vacation photos receive.

Is this the mark of a true friend?

Maybe even defining what a true friend is difficult.

However, I think most would agree that a true friend really knows you and is more than a passing digital remark.

The Apostle Paul speaks of his friend and Gospel partner Timothy with a characteristic that is hard to find, but is found in a true friendship.

“I have no one else like him, who takes a genuine interest in your welfare.”

Paul wasn’t impressed by status or charisma.  He didn’t care if he got recognition on his birthday, he was tuned into and deeply moved by Timothy’s heart. What set Timothy apart wasn’t his talents but his genuine care. He didn’t treat people like projects.  He didn’t connect with them to fill his personal ego or take from them for personal needs.  He truly loved the people God had placed in his life and cared about their whole well-being—physically, emotionally, and most importantly, spiritually.

He REALLY wanted to know how they were doing.

Timothy took time to ask AND he took time to listen.  Timothy took time to care AND to make sure the people around him were ok.

Why was this so different and stood out (shone like a star in the dark universe)?

Because most people look out for their OWN interests.  Sadly it’s easy to fall into this trap.  Life gets busy and we default to what’s convenient fo us.

Few engage in friendships and relationships to exhibit the interest of Christ. Timothy was one.  His relationships were not about convenience but calling. His care was shaped by the love and mission of Christ.

In all his relationships, he wanted to model the attitude of Christ: Humility and love…genuine humility and love. 

So, do you show genuine interest in your friends?

Ask yourself:

• Do I know my friends well enough to care for them in a meaningful way?
• Do I make space to understand what’s really going on beneath the surface?
• Am I just present in good times—or do I walk with them through adversity?

A godly friend takes a genuine concern in the lives of others.

Apply: Reach out to a friend—not with a quick “How are you?”—but with sincere intent to know and care for them. Ask about their spiritual walk. Offer encouragement or prayer. Let your care reflect the love of Christ.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for being the Friend who knows and loves me deeply. Help me reflect Your heart in my friendships. Give me eyes to see the needs of others, and the courage to care in ways that matter. Shape my love to look like Yours—genuine, sacrificial, and rooted in truth. Amen.