In what ways can we prioritize God's work as Paul did in Titus 3:12? Paul’s Immediate Circumstances in Titus 3:12 “As soon as I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, do your best to come to me in Nicopolis, because I have decided to spend the winter there.” (BSB) What We Observe about Paul’s Priorities • Active planning: he already decided where to winter. • Delegation of ministry: Artemas or Tychicus will cover Crete so Titus can leave. • Urgency in kingdom matters: “do your best to come.” • Relational teamwork: he wants Titus’s presence for mutual encouragement and ongoing ministry. How to Prioritize God’s Work like Paul 1. Mind the mission first – Let every calendar choice serve gospel advancement. (Matthew 6:33) – Ask, “Will this decision position me where God is working?” 2. Stay flexible and mobile – Paul moved where needs were greatest (1 Corinthians 16:5-9). – Hold plans loosely so the Spirit can redirect (James 4:15). 3. Delegate wisely – Entrust reliable believers with responsibility (2 Timothy 2:2). – Release control so ministry multiplies, as Paul did with Artemas and Tychicus. 4. Pursue partnerships, not solo endeavors – Paul rarely traveled alone (Philippians 2:19-30). – Seek believers who sharpen, protect, and encourage you. 5. Maintain urgency without panic – “Do your best” conveys earnest effort yet calm confidence in God’s timing. – Redeem every opportunity (Ephesians 5:15-16). 6. Plan practically, trust fully – He chose Nicopolis for winter; weather realities mattered. – Sound logistics honor God when surrendered to His sovereignty (Proverbs 16:9). 7. Nourish relationships that fuel ministry – Paul wants Titus’s fellowship; ministry flows from healthy friendships. – Prioritize time with co-laborers for prayer, counsel, and rest (Romans 1:11-12). Scriptures that Echo Paul’s Pattern • Acts 20:22-24 — Paul bound by the Spirit, ready for hardship. • 2 Timothy 4:9-13, 21 — similar requests for trusted workers to join him. • Luke 10:1-2 — sending laborers in pairs. • Hebrews 10:24-25 — meeting together to spur love and good deeds. Living It Out Today • Review your calendar weekly; align appointments with kingdom goals. • Identify one ministry task you can delegate and train someone to do it. • Schedule regular check-ins with spiritual partners; refuse isolation. • Hold future plans in prayer, ready to pivot when God redirects. • Act promptly on Spirit-prompted opportunities; delay often equals disobedience. Conclusion Paul’s short logistical line in Titus 3:12 reveals a life ordered around God’s agenda—planned yet pliable, collaborative, and urgent. Imitate these rhythms, and you, too, will keep kingdom work at the forefront, wherever God stations you. |
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