How can we support and encourage those "tested and approved" in our community? Recognizing the Tested and Approved Romans 16:10: “Greet Apelles, who is approved in Christ.” • “Approved” (dokimos) pictures metal refined by fire—faith proved genuine through trials. • Scripture treats such brothers and sisters as valuable treasures to the church (cf. 1 Peter 1:6-7). • Identifying them keeps us from overlooking quiet heroes whose steadfastness strengthens the whole body. Why Our Support Matters • Hebrews 6:10—God never forgets their labor; neither should we. • 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13—“Respect those who work hard among you… esteem them very highly in love.” • Galatians 6:9—Even the strongest can “grow weary”; timely encouragement helps them persevere. Practical Ways to Encourage Them Honor publicly • Mention them by name, as Paul did with Apelles. • Share testimonies of their faithfulness during gatherings (1 Corinthians 16:15-18). Strengthen privately • Send a note, text, or call that highlights specific ways their walk has blessed you (Proverbs 16:24). • Offer a listening ear; veterans of trials carry stories that need safe places to land (James 1:19). Shoulder the load • Join their ministries with hands-on help (Philippians 2:25-30). • Provide tangible resources—meals, childcare, financial gifts—freeing them to continue serving (Acts 4:34-35). Pray with precision • Ask how current pressures might undermine their endurance; intercede by name (Ephesians 6:18). • Fast occasionally on their behalf, modeling Exodus 17:12—lifting weary arms until victory comes. Guard their reputation • Refuse gossip; speak blessing instead (Ephesians 4:29). • Step in gently when others misunderstand or misrepresent their motives (Proverbs 31:8-9). Invite their voice • Seek their counsel during decision-making; tested believers carry seasoned wisdom (Job 12:12). • Encourage them to mentor younger Christians, multiplying faithfulness (2 Timothy 2:2). Celebrate milestones • Mark anniversaries of ministry, baptism, or recovery from trials with joyful gatherings (Romans 12:15). • Give thank-you letters signed by the congregation, echoing Philippians 1:3-5. Nurturing a Culture of Approval • Teach regularly on perseverance passages (James 1:12; Revelation 2:10) so the whole body values proven character. • Model transparency about your own trials; authenticity invites mutual support (2 Corinthians 1:3-7). • Create small-group settings where victories and wounds are shared, and believers pray one another through seasons of testing (Acts 2:46-47). The Endgame—Christ Glorified When we uphold those “approved in Christ,” we mirror the Lord who declares, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). Their steadfast lives become living parables of the gospel, and the whole church is fortified to stand firm together until He returns. |
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