April 12: Lacking

Scripture Lesson: Philippians 2:25-30

On this date in 1994, Scott Cooper of the Boston Red Sox hit for the cycle and drove in five runs while helping the Boston Red Sox rout the Royals at Kauffman Stadium, 22-11. The 3^rd baseman’s fifth inning triple was the result of being thrown out at home trying to stretch a triple into an inside the park home run. The game obviously was lacking in pitching, with 33 runs being scored.

In our Scripture lesson today, Paul wrote of a friend named Epaphroditus, describing him as his brother, his fellow worker and his fellow soldier. Epaphroditus took care of Paul and his needs even to the detriment of his own health. He worked hard to stand in the gap for the Philippians who could not come to Rome to be with Paul while he was in prison. When Philippians lacked the ability to help, Epaphroditus stood in for them. Paul wanted them to welcome Epaphroditus home with great joy and honor for what he had done for the Gospel and Paul.

1. Has God ever called you to stand in the gap?

2. What does the example of Epaphroditus teach us?

3. How can we be more like him in living for Jesus each day?

When God calls us to stand in the gap for others, He will always be there for us and equips us to do the job for Him.