The heart of a good partner

The heart of a good partner: Rev Jerry Eng

On 21^st January 2007 at CDC, we had the privilege of Rev Jerry Eng give the message on the heart of a good partner from Philippians Chapter 1:3-6

I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

The Philippian church was probably the dearest to Paul of all the churches. He really loved them and was filled with joy every time he thought of them. There was a real spirit of “koinonia”, a fellowship of the closest kind.

Drawing examples from the Philippian church, Rev Jerry highlighted three main characteristics that we should have in our partnership with God in His service and gospel

(1)   Giving of ourselves :- The Philippian church gave of their own. Epaphroditus was sent to Paul to help him while he was in chains in prison. He was so dear to Paul that Paul referred to him as a fellow brother, a fellow worker and a fellow soldier. He became sick and almost died because of his service yet gave everything of himself to help Paul as much as possible. Rev Jerry challenged us to always be ready to serve, regardless of age. Never say you are too old, never say you have no time.

(2)   Praying:  The Philippian church prayed constantly and fervently for Paul. Paul was confident that their prayers would help deliver Him. Good partners recognize the power of prayer and pray constantly for each other. To be a good partner in our family, cell group and church, we need to learn to pray constantly for them.

(3)   Giving of finance:- The Philippian church also gave generously in terms of finance to God. Even though they were poor, they gave all they could to help the church in Jerusalem, and also to Paul in his missionary journeys.

May the Lord help each one of us give of ourselves and our finances generously to help others, especially our brothers and sisters, and also remember to pray fervently for our church, our cell groups, our brothers and sisters, and our families always.

God bless,

Jason