Of all the godly men in God's Word, the apostle Paul continually challenges and inspires me!. That man pursued Christ with a passion. I mean, he had pit pull determination when it came to counting all things as loss in view of knowing Christ Jesus. Isn't that something?

Paul was focused and he was intense and that intensity jumps off the pages in the book of 2 Timothy like no where else. It's one of my favorite books of the Bible.  It is filled with instruction, emotion, warnings, bad people and good people.  Yep, a book for today for sure. It was a heart felt letter written to Timothy who was like a son to Paul.  They had a very special relationship.  In fact over in Philippians, Paul referred to Timothy as a kindred spirit. Such beautiful words - kindred spirit and to have one or more in our lives is a huge blessing. I love how Paul introduces Timothy as his kindred.  See, Paul is writing to a group of Christ-followers in Philippi that he deeply loved and was genuienly concerned.  He's writing to encourage them and ensure them that he is okay, right where God has him and that there is joy in the midst of suffering.  So, here's what he says:

" But I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, so that I also may be encouraged when I learn of your condition. For I have no one else of kindred spirit who will genuinely be concerned for your welfare." Philippians 2:19-20

Yep, having people in our lives who are like-minded, activated by the same emotions and of like character are a gift from God. Timothy got Paul! He not only got him but Timothy shared Paul's intensity for Christ, the furtherance of the gospel and the spiritual health and well being of the believers.  They pursued Christ and the work of God together. A beautiful, beautiful thing.

Paul said he had no one else of kindred spirit but Timothy.  I thank God for the kindred spirits in my life. We share the same mission, passion and purpose.  We get each other!  When they hurt, I hurt.  When they face trials and difficulties, my concern is deep and my prayers stepped up. When they experience joy, my heart leaps.  It's a beautiful thing for which I thank my God.  I love my sisters...my kindred spirits...to the moon and back.