"Instead, we were like young children among you. Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well." 1 Thessalonians 2:7-8
As I was walking to the starting line of a marathon several months ago, I spotted a woman knelt down surrounded by a few friends. As starting time was quickly approaching, she looked frantic as she was struggling to attach her timing chip to her shoe. Her friends complicated and hurried instructions seemed to only frustrate her further. As I approached them closer, I offered help to the new runner explaining that the process was much easier than the instruction sheet made it seem. With relief revealed in her smile, she welcomed the offer. And as I knelt down to attach it to her laces, I gently explained step by step how it was done.
Taking time for new believers is much the same way. In fact, in 1 Thessalonians 2:7, Paul wrote that he was like a spiritual parent to the new believers when he wrote, "Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared for you." You and I can and should be like caring parents for new believers -watching over them, nurturing them, encouraging them, correcting them and guiding them. We should be loving them so much that we delight in sharing "not only the gospel of God but our lives as well."
Perhaps you know someone struggling today with their faith or understanding of Christ. Won't you take the time to care for them and to help them? By doing so, you will be teaching them both with words and with actions.
Heavenly Father, thank you for allowing us to be your hands and feet. Thank you for the honor of bringing the message of Salvation to a dying world. Help us to care so much for others that we would always be looking for ways to help. And may we daily read your Word that we might be ready to nurture others in it. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!!!
Jeremy Camp - Take my life
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