Text: Philippians 2:1-8

Ministry involves so much pouring out, giving, serving, and being available to others. Even when we’re not actively doing the work of the ministry, we’re often preparing to do the work. Pouring out is not a bad thing; healthy people pour themselves out regularly for the benefit of others.

But healthy people don’t just pour out; they also incorporate rhythms into their lives that allow them to refuel and take in sustenance. Unhealthy people may constantly fill their schedules because they genuinely want to impact the kingdom of God, but they often imagine they do not need (or are not allowed to need) what others need. They think because they are doing “the Lord’s work,” they would be selfish to say no or take a day off. Healthy people, by contrast, embrace their God-given limits and make commitments accordingly.

God has given us the church so that we might be poured into. This elevates the idea of Church because we must be open with our needs, our sins, and our victories if we are to be poured into as we desire. God intended for the mature to open ourselves up in community so that we have a circular discipleship in which we serve and are served.

So when you are asked, “Who pours into you?” You don’t think of one specific person. You think of your pastor-husband who preaches verse by verse through the Bible. You think of the elders who watch over your church. You think of the young women who ask you hard questions and cause you to search the Scriptures for answers. You think of the women you’re discipling who in turn disciple you. You think of the staff and elder wives who serve so faithfully and encourage you to use your gifts.

You think of your friends who are willing to say hard things. You think of the people in your community group who pray for you. You think of longtime friends who live at a distance and listen and respond objectively to your struggles. You think of those who use their gifts on Sunday mornings to provide space for your worship. And, yes, you think of several older women who occasionally help you know what to do in parenting and marriage. This is the church, and this is God providing for your needs. This is God providing for mine as well.

Unhealthy living eventually catches up with you. How have you lived in a way that pours out without also being poured into? Are you willing to pursue and receive the different ways God provides for your wellbeing?