Paul knew a lot of people. He traveled to many places and led many to Christ. He encouraged a number of churches and was well-known among the first century believers. His relationships were very important to him and some of his friends were like family: "Titus, my true child."

Since Paul and Titus had traveled together, and Titus was with the apostle in Corinth, when it came time to write the second letter to the Corinthian church, Paul mentions their common friend (Titus). These nine different references give us insight to their friendship; take note of these:

· "when I came to Troas for the gospel of Christ and when a door was opened for me in the Lord, I had no rest for my spirit, not finding Titus my brother" (2 Cor. 2:12-13).
· "for the joy of Titus, because his spirit has been refreshed by you all"  (2 Cor. 7:13).
· "partner and fellow worker" (2 Cor. 8:23).

God gives us special friends as we go through life. These relationships, not only meet the deep "family" needs of our heart but they teach us how to love and be loved.

On this Lord's day, take a moment and thank God for your spiritual parents and children. Thank Him for the people who cause your heart to ache when you have not seen them…and, for the people who have refreshed your spirit. Take some time to pray for them…and if possible, contact them and encourage them in their walk with God.

Father,
We thank You for the family of God. You have placed us in relationships so that we can love and be loved.
Thank You for those who led me to Christ and helped me to grow in my faith.
Thank You for those I can serve and encourage.
Show me how to invest in others….In Jesus Name, Amen