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God Delights in Using Ordinary People in Extraordinary Ways

 

  1. God uses people who ________________________ about others  Philippians 2:19-21

 

Philippians 2:19 (NASB) 19 But I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, so that I also may be encouraged when I learn of your condition.

 

Romans 12:10 (NASB) 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor;

 

  1. God __________________________ in the ordinary Philippians 2:22

 

Philippians 2:22 (NASB) 22 But you know of his proven worth, that he served with me in the furtherance of the gospel like a child serving his father.

 

Luke 16:10 (NASB) 10 “He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much; and he who is unrighteous in a very little thing is unrighteous also in much.

 

  1. God_______________________________ the world never sees   Philippians 2:25-30

 

Philippians 2:25 (NASB) 25 But I thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger and minister to my need;

 

Mark 10:43-45 (NASB) 43 But it is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant; 44 and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”

Takin’ It Home…

  1. Be faithful where God has _____________________
  2. Intentionally ____________ for one person this week
  3. Thank someone whose faithfulness has __________ __________________________________________
  4. Begin each morning with one simple prayer: “______ __________________________________________”

 

Proven Worth" (Philippians 2:22)

Paul says Timothy had "proven worth." The Greek word dokimē describes something that has been tested and approved, like precious metal refined by fire. Timothy's reputation wasn't built on talent alone—it was forged through years of faithful obedience. God often develops our character long before He expands our influence.

Study Further: Luke 16:10 • James 1:2–4 • 1 Peter 1:6–7

Reflect: Where is God using ordinary circumstances to shape my character?

"Honor Men Like Him" (Philippians 2:29)

Paul tells the church to "honor men like him." The word honor means to highly value or esteem. In a culture that celebrated power and position, Paul called believers to celebrate humble, faithful servants. God's Kingdom has always measured greatness differently than the world.

Study Further: Mark 10:42–45 • Matthew 25:21 • Hebrews 6:10

Reflect: Who has quietly demonstrated Christlike faithfulness that I can encourage this week?