Philippians 2:12-30.  Paul was no lone ranger. He was blessed by those who ministered the gospel because of him, those who served alongside him in his team, and those who were sent to support him and provide for his needs.

1. Paul took joy from knowing that he Philippian Christians would be willing and working for God’s good pleasure together, shining as lights in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation (12-15).
2. He took joy from knowing that his sacrifice for them would not be in vain, because their works would greet him on the day of Christ (16-18).
3. He took joy in knowing that Timothy would soon be ministering among the Philippians, because he knew how valuable Timothy was in the LORD’s service (19-24).
4. He took joy in returning Epaphroditus to those who sent him to minister and pass on messages. He knew that the Philippians were concerned, because they knew of his sickness. He knew how much encouragment it would bring them to learn that God healed him by his mercy, and that he had risked his life to minister to Paul (25-30).

LORD, thank you for the other people that you bring into our lives to support and encourage our walk with you, and work for you.

[Note on healing: Epaphroditus was healed by God’s mercy, not by claiming a healing he supposedly deserved. All blessings we receive from God are through his grace and mercy. Even the covenant is a covenant of grace. Prayer for healing is not an attempt to manipulate God to do something he does not want to do. Prayer is an act of dependence, not the serving of a warrant.]