More Needful. Philippians 1:24. “Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.” Paul was confident he would not die at that time because the Philippians still needed him. He believed that when he visited them after being in prison, they would rejoice even more in the Lord Jesus. His goal was for their joy through faith to grow continuously. He was not just satisfied that they were saved, but he was genuinely concerned that they would develop in faith to reach spiritual maturity in the Lord Jesus Christ.
This is vital in the lives of every believer. We need to grow and develop in our walk of faith. Fellowship with other believers plays a crucial role in this, and also, learning from the teachings of faithful, mature men is a good way to deepen our understanding of the word of God. The challenge to remain faithful in service often comes when a mature believer guides us more fully in the way of Christ. We can rejoice when we see the results of what God is doing through His people who hear and put His word into practice. When we observe changes in understanding and wisdom in other believers, we are motivated to follow their example.
They wait for me to decide what affects them, and I am unsure of what to say and do. I cannot avoid the fact that, to some extent, my family needs me, even if it is only a silent example of what I believe, preach, and strive to live out through my lifetime, along with my expectations for them. I am also responsible to those I have worked with to advance God’s kingdom. They want me to stay connected with them occasionally, and I believe they are right— to learn from the experience I can share.
To the assembly that, over half a century ago, trusted me, gave a written commendation for our work, and prayed for God's grace as we faced the future; I am still responsible, and I will be for my entire life. I must give what I have to those the Lord saved when I preached the Gospel. I still have obligations I must fulfill. I need to continue supporting and teaching them in God's Word and His will so that their testimony where they live continues. Whether I fully understand it or not, I know it is true; I cannot believe that “I have nothing to contribute.” I am responsible to God to demonstrate in all aspects of life what I have learned and to imitate the example of Christ.