What can we learn about prioritizing relationships from 2 Corinthians 2:13? Setting the Scene Paul recounts arriving in Troas, where “a door was opened for me in the Lord” (2 Corinthians 2:12). Yet, v. 13 records an unexpected turn: “I had no rest in my spirit, because I did not find my brother Titus there. So I said farewell to them and went on to Macedonia.” Restless Spirit, Relational Heart • “No rest in my spirit” shows that even an apostle’s peace could be unsettled by concern for a fellow worker. • Paul’s wording mirrors Old Testament laments (cf. Genesis 8:9; Jeremiah 45:3), underscoring genuine emotional weight. • Scripture treats spiritual unrest tied to people as legitimate, not a weakness to hide. Choosing People Over Opportunity • An “open door” for ministry did not outweigh Paul’s need to locate Titus. Fruitful work paused so a brother could be found. • This echoes Jesus’ parable of leaving the ninety-nine to seek the one (Luke 15:4–6). • Ministry that neglects relationships is out of balance; people are the mission, not a distraction from it. The Strength of Gospel Partnerships • Titus was more than a coworker; he was “my true son in our common faith” (Titus 1:4). • Later, Paul testifies, “God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the arrival of Titus” (2 Corinthians 7:6). Presence brought comfort that circumstances could not. • Other examples: – Timothy, who had “genuine concern for your welfare” (Philippians 2:20–21). – Epaphroditus, who “longed for all of you” (Philippians 2:26–27). – Old-Testament Jonathan and David, whose souls “were knit” (1 Samuel 18:1). • God often delivers encouragement through flesh-and-blood friends, not isolated miracles. What We Learn About Prioritizing Relationships • Relationships outrank even promising opportunities. • Spiritual rest is tied to relational wholeness; unresolved concern for people can hinder effective service. • Seeking out brothers and sisters models Christ’s incarnational love (John 13:34). • Healthy ministry flows from shared burdens: “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). • Obedience may mean stopping fruitful activity to care for one person—trusting God will reopen doors when the time is right. Practical Steps • Guard your calendar so people never become interruptions. • Notice restlessness; ask whether a strained relationship is the source. • Pursue absent or hurting believers swiftly, as Paul pursued Titus. • Celebrate gospel partnerships; invest time to strengthen them (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10). • Keep ministry goals subordinate to love: “If I have all faith… but do not have love, I am nothing” (1 Corinthians 13:2). In Summary 2 Corinthians 2:13 teaches that God-honoring service begins with God-honoring relationships. When concern for a brother or sister unsettles our spirit, love demands action—even at the cost of exciting opportunities. People first, always. |
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