What a privilege we have as we read of the missionary / church planter named Paul as he spoke tenderly and truthfully to the leaders of the church at Ephesus. Come with me as we listen in.

“I have been with you at all seasons, serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations…and how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you” (Acts 20:18-20).

Paul was on his way to Jerusalem and knew that perhaps this would be the last time that he could interact with the elders from Ephesus. He gave a report of his extensive ministry by reminding them that his ministry was genuine and his loving concern for them was the real thing.  What a great example for each of us as we seek to serve the Lord. We need to live as if this could be our last day here on earth as well. While this is not a dreadful thing to the believer, it is very urgent. I need to live each day as a humble, caring, faithful-through-trials kind of servant who consistently places the highest priority on the welfare of those around me.

Think about this with me today: Thank you, dear Apostle Paul. Thank you for your example of the kind of servant we need to be today. I need to be pointing people to the Lord Jesus by my faithful testimony and changed life.