1 Kings 8:31-66; Jeremiah 16:1-21; Philippians 1:21-2:11
I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea: That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also. Romans 16:1-2
It is a good thing to speak well of the Lord’s people, and Paul’s dignified commendation of Phebe informed the saints that she was a woman of spiritual character. As “our sister,” Phebe’s dignity was acknowledged; as “a servant of the church,” her diligence was noted; as “a succourer of many,” her devotion was praised. Phebe was highly valued by Paul as his helper in the cause of Christ. Could such a fulsome commendation be honestly given of us today? —Phil Coulson
Teach me to live, Thy purpose to fulfil;
Each day renew, re-mould the stubborn will. —Ellen Burman