Week 69 : Free Weekend Program for Children

Text : Romans 15:22-32

Theme : Mutual Support Among Believers

“This is why I have often been hindered from coming to you. But now that there is no more place for me to work in these regions, and since I have been longing for many years to visit you, I plan to do so when I go to Spain. I hope to see you while passing through and to have you assist me on my journey there, after I have enjoyed your company for a while. Now, however, I am on my way to Jerusalem in the service of the Lord’s people there.

For Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the Lord’s people in Jerusalem. They were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have shared in the Jews’ spiritual blessings, they owe it to the Jews to share with them their material blessings.

So after I have completed this task and have made sure that they have received this contribution, I will go to Spain and visit you on the way. I know that when I come to you, I will come in the full measure of the blessing of Christ. I urge you, brothers and sisters, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me.

Pray that I may be kept safe from the unbelievers in Judea and that the contribution I take to Jerusalem may be favorably received by the Lord’s people there, so that I may come to you with joy, by God’s will, and in your company be refreshed. The God of peace be with you all. Amen.” Romans 15:22-33

Paul worked hard to share the message of Christ amongst the Gentiles (non-Jewish people). In Galatians, he even said he labored “in pain” so that Christ would be formed in them. And God, as only He can, gave increase and strength to the new believers.

Now, Paul recognizes that his mission there is complete. He isn’t leaving because things got difficult or because of persecution. Instead, he sees that these believers have grown strong in their faith—they know the truth and can now help guide each other. He’s confident that leaders are in place, so he can move on to encourage others.

God guides us in the same way. “The steps of a good person are ordered by the Lord” (Psalm 37:23) —meaning, if we’re following God, He’s guiding our steps. Through Jesus’ sacrifice, God has made us good, righteous, and acceptable before Him. He shapes our desires, whether by fulfilling them, holding them back for a season, or even changing them. He is sovereign—completely in control.

When we follow God’s path, we can trust He’ll provide what we need. Even if we don’t see every step ahead, God’s grace is always with us to accomplish His purpose. “Now this is the confidence we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us” (1 John 5:14). What a promise!

Just like Paul, we should be open to God’s guidance, show love to others, and rely on prayer. God’s mercy and grace are always there to guide and support us, no matter where we are. Paul not only helped many people, but he also asked for help from other believers. He was open about his struggle, his faith did not exempt him from physical challenges and struggles, but notice he did not murmur or complain but sort God through prayer and those of other believers to overcome.

This is how we’re meant to live: supporting each other and being a source of encouragement as we all serve Christ. When we look to Him, God works in us to fulfill “every desire for goodness and every deed prompted by faith” (2 Thessalonians 1:11-12).

Today’s message goes further to reminds us of the essential role that spiritual leaders—preachers, missionaries, etc play in our faith journeys. They dedicate their lives to serving our souls, teaching the Word, and guiding us through our spiritual struggles and triumphs. Their gifts and sacrifices have a profound impact, helping us grow in our understanding of the gospel and deepening our relationship with the Lord.

Consider the many ways spiritual leaders have influenced the lives of countless believers and yours in particular. Whether through inspiring sermons, personal counseling, or community outreach, their commitment to spreading the Gospel and nurturing faith is invaluable.

They often face significant challenges, including emotional, physical and financial burdens, as they strive to fulfill their calling. Recognizing the sacrifices they make and the time they invest in others is extremely important.

Just as the Apostle Paul sought to support the church in Jerusalem by taking gifts to them, we too are called to support those who have invested in our spiritual growth as well as the poor saints amongst us; while financial support is very important, it is not the only way to help spiritual leaders and many others in church. Of equal importance and much more is the power of prayer. When we pray for our pastors, missionaries and other poor saints, we engage in a spiritual partnership that transcends physical resources. Our prayers can uplift and encourage them, providing strength and wisdom as they navigate the challenges of their ministries and life in general.

Moreover, combining our generosity with prayer ensures that our gifts are received with thanksgiving. When they know they are being prayed for and supported, it can significantly impact their lives and effectiveness in ministry and in their Christian journey as a whole,

It is our God given responsibility to support those who have helped us grow spiritually as well as the poor saints amongst us. By giving generously and praying fervently for our spiritual leaders and other believers, we honor God and we encourage them. Most of you are not in a position to help missionaries financially, but you can pray for them and God will hear you.

Now, regarding your fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, especially in this program, am sure you can prayerfully find ways to be an encouragement to those who are less privileged than you are. It could mean sharing your extra pencil, helping them finish Saturday morning chores at home so they won’t be late to program, etc. giving is an act of kindness that honors God.

So remember, it’s not enough to simply know the gospel; we’re called to live it. Strive for goodness and moral excellence (2 Peter 1:5-8) and seek to help others; we owe each other a debt of love, love is the mark of true faith in Christ John 13:35 and we must labour in prayer that those we serve will receive the grace God is offering them through our words and deeds.

May God bless you and make you a light for others.