When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, make every effort to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there. Diligently help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way so that nothing is lacking for them.

Think back on a time you watched a child become frustrated as they tried to do something on their own. Very quickly they become overwhelmed and exasperated. Usually, an adult approaches to help and encourage them. They may say, “Next time, just ask for help.” The adult, through their actions and reminder, shows the child it is okay to ask for help. In fact, it is expected that they ask for help because they are at such an age where there are many things they can’t do alone. But as we develop past the childhood phase, we often lose that vocabulary of asking for help. We strive for independence, and we become unfamiliar with asking for what we need.

Paul had many encouragements and teachings to the church that lifted them up and equipped them for life as followers of Christ. But that was not the only thing he included in his letters. Commonly, Paul asked for help. He told Titus about his needs and those of others close to them. Sharing these needs was not a sign of weakness but an example of how the church is to come together in practical ways to help one another. As a follower of Christ, you are called to love your neighbor and share your faith, but you do not have to do these things alone. On your own, striving will lead to burnout. We are equipped by the power of the Holy Spirit inside of us and with the family of God surrounding us to press on toward living for Him.

• When have you faced burnout in your faith? What were some things you needed help with at that time?
• What are some practical things you need help with right now but struggle asking for?
• Pray and thank God for the body of Christ He has provided to help one another.