SATURDAY August 16, 2025
Diligent Travels
When I send Artemas to you, or Tychicus, be diligent to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there.
Titus 3:12
In the conclusion of his letter, I love what Paul instructed Titus to do. His desire was to see Titus, so he gave the young pastor special instructions. Paul was going to send Artemas or Tychicus to replace Titus’ position in Crete, freeing him to travel to see Paul in Nicopolis. The city’s name means “city of victory,” which is interesting because Paul was released from his first Roman imprisonment, and there was such victory in that!
Who was Artemas and Tychicus? Artemas was Paul’s companion at Nicopolis. His name means “whole” or “sound.” It also means “gift.” Tychicus was another associate of Paul. At times, he traveled ahead of Paul, and on other occasions, he traveled with him. As a faithful disciple of Christ, Paul sent him to Ephesus to read the epistle he had written to the church. He was also chosen to be sent to Colosse to read Paul’s letter to the Colossian church.
Paul told Titus to be diligent in planning his travels. We can practically hear the urgency in his voice, “Come quickly, before it is too late.” The word diligent means “to hasten.” Titus was to use effort and speed in making prompt plans to see Paul. He could not procrastinate. Why? Winter would make travel very difficult. It would be best to arrive in Nicopolis before the weather changed.
Have you ever made travel plans? Some people go on missions’ trips, visit Israel with their church, or take vacations. It takes a lot of organization and planning. Even though we have modern airplanes, ships, and trains, plans need to be made promptly. Passports need to be current and paperwork put in order. When you pack your suitcase, you have to make sure it is not overweight. You should also verify the flight time and schedule so that you arrive on time to the airport. You cannot be late, or you will miss your flight.
Whatever plans you have to travel, be diligent and plan ahead. Then you will find that things will run smoothly.
Let all things be done decently and in order.
~1 Corinthians 14:40~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
