In what ways can we protect and support God's servants today? Verse Focus 1 Kings 18:13: “Was it not reported to my lord what I did when Jezebel was killing the prophets of the LORD—I hid a hundred of the LORD’s prophets, fifty men to a cave, and I provided them with food and water?” Obadiah’s Pattern of Care • He recognized the danger facing God’s messengers and acted decisively. • He used his position in Ahab’s court to shield the prophets. • He supplied ongoing, tangible support—food, water, safe shelter—over an extended period. Why This Still Matters God’s servants remain targets—sometimes of overt persecution, often of subtle pressures. Obadiah shows that practical, sustained aid is both possible and pleasing to God. Ways We Can Protect and Support God’s Servants Today • Offer Material Provision – Contribute generously to missionaries and pastors (Philippians 4:14-18). – Open homes for rest and hospitality (Romans 16:1-2). • Stand With Them Publicly – Speak well of faithful leaders when others malign them (Proverbs 31:8-9). – Defend their right to preach “the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27). • Intercede Consistently – Pray for boldness and protection (Ephesians 6:19-20). – Keep their families before the throne of grace (1 Timothy 2:1-2). • Share the Load – Volunteer in church ministries so leaders can focus on the Word (Acts 6:3-4). – Provide professional skills—legal, medical, technical—when needs arise (3 John 5-8). • Encourage With Words – Send messages that affirm their labor is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58). – Remember anniversaries, milestones, and answer to prayers. • Uphold Their Authority Scripturally – “Obey your leaders and submit to them” (Hebrews 13:17). – Resist gossip and division (Titus 3:10-11). • Protect Financial Integrity – Ensure fair compensation (Galatians 6:6). – Establish transparent accountability structures (2 Corinthians 8:20-21). Additional Scriptural Reinforcement • 2 Timothy 4:17—The Lord stood with Paul; we imitate the Lord when we stand with His servants. • Psalm 105:15—“Do not touch My anointed ones,” a sober warning against harming those God appoints. • 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13—“Regard them very highly in love because of their work.” Respect and affection go hand in hand. Putting It All Together Following Obadiah’s lead means moving beyond admiration to action: guarding reputations, meeting needs, partnering in ministry, and staying vigilant in prayer. In so doing, we honor the God who calls and equips His servants—and we participate in the advance of His kingdom. |
    |