How can we honor those who have "worked hard in the Lord" today? Seeing Paul’s Example Romans 16:13 says, “Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother, who has been a mother to me as well.” • Paul publicly thanks Rufus’s mother for treating him like family. • Her simple, everyday acts of care are recorded forever in Scripture—proof that God values hidden service. • This greeting sits in a chapter filled with similar shout-outs (vv. 6, 12), showing that honoring faithful workers was Paul’s settled practice, not a one-time impulse. What Scripture Teaches about Honoring Hard Workers • Romans 16:6 — “Greet Mary, who has worked very hard for you.” • Romans 16:12 — “Greet … Tryphena and Tryphosa, those women who work hard in the Lord … Persis, who has worked very hard in the Lord.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 — “acknowledge those who labor among you… esteem them very highly in love because of their work.” • 1 Timothy 5:17 — “Let the elders who lead well be considered worthy of double honor.” • Hebrews 13:7 — “Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you.” • Proverbs 3:27 — “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due.” Together these passages form a clear, consistent call: Christ’s people must value and reward those who pour themselves out in His service. Practical Ways to Show Honor Today Affirm with words • Write a hand-written note or text of gratitude. • Share a brief testimony in small group of how their ministry helped you. Lighten their load • Offer child-care for busy servants who seldom sit in worship together. • Provide a freezer meal, do yardwork, or cover an errand. Public recognition • Invite them forward for a simple “thank you” during a service. • Include their story in the church newsletter or social media. Financial generosity • Give gift cards or a designated love offering (1 Timothy 5:18). • Remember missionaries and retired pastors at holidays. Defend and protect • Refuse gossip; speak up when criticism turns unfair. • Pray faithfully for their protection, strength, and families. Follow their lead • Imitating their faith is the highest compliment (Hebrews 13:7). • Step into service yourself; shared labor refreshes weary hands. Guarding the Heart behind Our Honor • Honor flows from gratitude, not flattery. • We esteem people because God first esteemed them—chosen in the Lord (Romans 16:13). • True honor never competes for attention; it delights to lift others higher. Why It Matters • Encouraged workers persevere, and the gospel advances (1 Corinthians 15:58). • A culture of honor protects unity: “live in peace with one another” (1 Thessalonians 5:13). • The watching world sees Christ’s love made visible when His servants are cherished, not used. |
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