In what ways can we support and encourage diligent workers like those in Romans 16:12? Scripture Snapshot “Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, who have worked hard in the Lord. Greet my beloved Persis, who has worked very hard in the Lord.” – Romans 16:12 Seeing the Heart of Diligent Service Paul pauses his letter to honor three women whose tireless labor advanced the gospel. By naming them, he shows that joyful, sacrificial service matters to God and should matter to us. Their example invites us to ask, “How can we stand beside the hardworking servants in our own churches and ministries?” Ways to Support and Encourage Diligent Workers • Recognize and affirm their labor – 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 reminds us to “acknowledge those who labor among you… and esteem them most highly in love because of their work.” – A timely word, note, or public commendation can refresh weary hearts (Proverbs 25:11). • Speak life-giving words – Ephesians 4:29 urges speech that “builds up.” – Tell them specifically how their ministry has blessed you or others. • Assist practically and materially – Galatians 6:6 calls believers to “share in all good things” with teachers. – 1 Timothy 5:17-18 affirms that faithful leaders are “worthy of double honor.” – Gift cards, meals, childcare, and financial support lighten their load. • Pray fervently for them – 2 Thessalonians 3:1: “Brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may spread rapidly.” – Regular intercession guards them from discouragement and spiritual attack (Colossians 4:3-4). • Share the load – Philippians 4:3 shows Paul enlisting help for fellow laborers. – Volunteer for tasks they routinely shoulder alone—setup, cleanup, visits, administration. • Open your home and heart – Lydia’s hospitality (Acts 16:15) and Gaius’s generosity (3 John 5-8) advanced the mission. – Provide lodging, a meal table, or a quiet place of retreat. • Protect their reputation – 1 Timothy 5:19 warns against unfounded accusations. – Defend them graciously when gossip surfaces (Proverbs 31:8-9). • Encourage regular rest – Jesus said, “Come with Me by yourselves to a solitary place and rest awhile” (Mark 6:31). – Urge vacation days, send them away on a retreat, or cover duties so they can unplug. • Continually point them to Christ – Hebrews 12:2 calls every servant to “fix our eyes on Jesus.” – Share testimonies of fruit God is producing through their efforts (Hebrews 6:10). • Follow their example – “Remember your leaders… imitate their faith” (Hebrews 13:7). – When we mirror their diligence, we multiply encouragement—they see their labor reproducing itself. Putting It Into Practice This Week • Write a short thank-you note to someone who quietly “works hard in the Lord.” • Ask one diligent worker, “How can I lift a burden for you in the next month?” • Add their name to your daily prayer list and let them know you’re praying. • Set aside a practical gift (groceries, book, or gas card) as a tangible expression of honor. God delights in using ordinary believers to refresh His faithful servants. Following Paul’s pattern in Romans 16:12, let’s make sure no diligent worker runs alone. |
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