LOYAL. 2nd Timothy 1:16-18 Onesiphorus must have already died, perhaps during the persecution happening in Rome at that time. Now, for the family that was left behind, there was a need that Paul was praying about. Onesiphorus was a faithful servant who was involved in spiritual service for the Lord when he ministered to Paul in his time of need. Serving in this way is a great privilege, and it requires our best efforts. He had made it a point to search for the apostle Paul until he found him, likely in a dungeon awaiting death in his final imprisonment. What a blessing it is to "have oft refreshed" someone who is in a difficult time and place. When we know someone who suffers, we make it a point to go and help them in any way possible. Often, both the sufferer and the helper are blessed during those times of holy fellowship. The very act of making the effort provides comfort to someone who is suffering or being persecuted. He also wished a blessing upon himself for the coming day of rewards. Timothy knew what Onesiphorus had done for the apostle and those with him. For all of us, payday is coming. May that encourage us in the work of the Lord to be faithful, diligent, and courageous. We should never underestimate the importance of a man who is available for service in the work of the Lord and is known to do his best. Not everyone has the same ability to use the gifts God provides in the same way, but some have committed themselves to living for God. One man may be shy and reserved, another brave and visionary. One might have the gift of preaching publicly, while another has the ability to hold to the truth biblically and firmly. Each has a calling to fulfill in the place where he is called. I pray that when the Lord returns and we are called to go higher, they will have faithfully fulfilled the post given to them.
Paul charged Timothy, "Do not be ashamed of the Lord nor of me His prisoner.” "Keep yourself pure so when you preach, the message will not be blamed." In our day, we also have a work from God to proclaim the Gospel. When we serve in Jesus' name, there is power and authority too. We may not realize at the time the worth of what we do. One man's words with grace and compassion may remove bitterness before the visit ends. An encouraging word and a positive attitude help focus people on what, why, or who we are emphasizing, because our commitment is not only to men but also to our Savior.