Be of Good Cheer

Wednesday, May 17

Be Of Good Cheer
By: Pastor Shane Beauvais

“ I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you.  I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.” 
Philippians 2:19-21 

Paul’s letter to the Philippians offers some significant insights to consider. First, there is something powerful about his word choice of being “cheered.” We can all agree that it feels good to be cheered! In this story, Timothy’s visit had a particular goal: encouraging the believers at Philippi. He was cheering them on! However, as Timothy returned bearing the good news from his visit, Paul would also be encouraged! Whether bringing or receiving cheer, Paul and Timothy illustrate how a genuine demonstration of concern for others is essential in making these cheer experiences a reality.

Not only did Paul understand the encouragement of cheer, but his concern in sending Timothy offers an excellent example of character through selfless servant leadership. Paul loved Timothy and considered him to be one of his closest companions. Nonetheless, in a time of imprisonment, Paul was prepared to give up Timothy’s company to assist others.
The most remarkable display of the gospel comes from a compelling display of servant leadership, which is always a function of character and competence. Character and competence build the trust that gives credibility to our words, and our credibility will determine how we connect with others effectively. Paul’s character displayed selflessness, and his genuine care toward others defined his competence.

In a world where “looking out for self” becomes more common, demonstrating a genuine concern for others through selfless actions will always define our heart’s interest. It has been said that “people do not care how much we know until they know how much we care.” Selflessness comes from the cheer of Christ’s working inside us, not out of necessity or religious duty.

What does this type of cheer look like in our lives? How about our character and competency regarding servant leadership? Understanding how others perceive us is more important than how we perceive ourselves. True character and selflessness displayed through actions of genuine care will always define the gospel of Jesus Christ in our world. As Paul anticipated, cheer is also experienced when we witness Christ working in others around us!