Monday, 16 January 2017
For I have no one like-minded, who will sincerely care for your state. Philippians 2:20
The word translated as “For” is referring back to the previous verse and its content –
“But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, that I also may be encouraged when I know your state.”
Timothy was with Paul and he was a treasured fellow Christian because he could fully rely on him. Paul sincerely cared for the Philippians and how they were faring, and he knew that Timothy felt the same. His words, “I have no one like-minded,” demonstrate a trust in him that went beyond mere friendship. The word translated as “like-minded” is isopsuchos. This is its only use in the Bible, and it means literally “of equal soul.” Timothy would have care and concern for those in Philippi in the same Spirit-produced manner as Paul would have.
He then confirms this by saying that Timothy would “sincerely care for your state.” The word translated as “sincerely” is an adverb only found here in the Bible, gnésiós. It signifies “genuinely” or “truly.” There would be nothing false in his dealings. His intent was not profit or fame, but the care of others. The word has a kindred adjective which is found a few times in Scripture, once where Paul calls Timothy his “true son” in the faith.
It was understood that he could be fully trusted because of this like-minded heart and attitude. He was one that realized the importance of the concept found in Hebrews 13:17 –
“…for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account.”
Life application: There are many who act rightly, but for the wrong reasons. It is a joy when one can rely on another, knowing full well that they are not only determined to do right, but to do so for the right reasons. Such a person can be fully trusted in all matters. Let each of us endeavor to have our heart aligned with our actions, working together in sincerity and understanding that we are accountable to Christ Jesus for all we do.
Lord God, how often it is that we do the right thing, but we do it for the wrong reasons. Help us to not serve with our actions only, but with our hearts and with a right attitude. In so doing, others will see that we are fully trustworthy, not only when the eye is upon us, but when we are left to handle things on our own. In the end, Your eye is always upon us, and it is to You that we should always endeavor to be pleasing. To Your glory! Amen.