Tag Archives: beloved brother

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – A Pattern for Pastors

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Tychicus, an Asiatic Christian, accompanied the Apostle Paul on part of his journey from Macedonia to Jerusalem. He was with Paul in Rome, and sent by Paul to Colossae to build up and encourage the church there. He’s mentioned five times in the New Testament.

Tychicus…is a beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. Colossians 4:7

He stands as a shining example for ministers and pastors today. First and foremost, he was faithful and reliable in everything. Tychicus was greatly loved and returned that compassion to the Lord and His people. He was God’s servant, not exalting himself with trappings of greatness. Paul called him a “fellow” servant – his equal. Tychicus measured up to the high calling of the Lord in his life.

Is there a Tychicus in your church? A pastor who loves the Lord and His word, who holds out hands to help, who follows Jesus’ admonitions toward the poor, and seeks the lost? Is he growing in holiness? If he is, or even if he seems to fall short, pray for him – that he will have time of refreshment with the Lord daily, and that he will be steadfast to all of God’s Word. Churches will strengthen and America will be enriched as more ministers measure up to the pattern set by Tychicus.

Recommended Reading: Ephesians 3:4-12

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Second Chances

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Recently, The Moment, a reality show about receiving a second chance, aired with Kurt Warner as the host. Warner, given a second chance at a professional football career, famously went from bagging groceries to Super Bowl MVP in just 18 months. He subsequently led three teams to the National Football League’s ultimate game, proving a second chance sometimes not only positively influences the individual, but others as well.

Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you.   Colossians 4:9

Today’s scripture refers to Onesimus, a runaway slave. Onesimus met Paul and was converted to Christianity. Paul sent him back to his master, Philemon, asking for him to be taken back not as a slave, but as a brother in Christ. Paul asked for Onesimus to be given a second chance. Philemon agreed. Onesimus later became a bishop at the church in Ephesus and was the first to begin collecting and organizing the books of the New Testament.

Consider the outcome if Onesimus hadn’t been given a second chance. Does someone in your life deserve a “re-do”? Wiping the slate clean and letting them start over not only impacts the person, but could positively influence the future for others as well. Pray, too, for God to give many of the nation’s leaders a second chance to know and serve Him.

Recommended Reading: Philemon 8-21