“Tychicus, our dearly loved brother, faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord, will tell you all the news about me. I have sent him to you for this very purpose, so that you may know how we are and so that he may encourage your hearts. He is coming with Onesimus, a faithful and dearly loved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you about everything here.” – Colossians 4:7-9

When I go through my most difficult trials I always try to look up and ask, “God, what are you doing? What am I to learn through this? How am I supposed to grow? What are you trying to accomplish?” In my latest struggle I have seen how God uses my church to minister to me. People outside of the church or new Christians might think that pastors do all the ministry. But the truth is, pastors need their church family as much as they need him.

I think the greatest example of this truth is the Apostle Paul. We think about him traveling to preach the Gospel, teaching in the churches, writing incredible letters of foundational theology, and even living out his faith in prison. But we forget that the churches sent men to minister to him, financially supported him, and prayed for him constantly. Paul did a great work for God in all the churches, but the churches worked in Paul’s life as well.

Why do I tell you all this? If Paul needed the ministry of the church, and the pastor needs the ministry of the church, then you do too! Do not isolate yourself in times of trials. Stay connected to your church. Share your struggles with your church. Allow those who love Christ to demonstrate his love to you.

Heavenly Father, show us what a true church looks like as we minister to one another, from the oldest of saints to the youngest of converts.

In Christ’s Service,
Pastor Shane Cannon