“So guard yourselves and God’s people. Feed and shepherd God’s flock—his church, purchased with his own blood —over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you as leaders. I know that false teachers, like vicious wolves, will come in among you after I leave, not sparing the flock. Even some men from your own group will rise up and distort the truth in order to draw a following. Watch out! Remember the three years I was with you—my constant watch and care over you night and day, and my many tears for you. “And now I entrust you to God and the message of his grace that is able to build you up and give you an inheritance with all those he has set apart for himself. “I have never coveted anyone’s silver or gold or fine clothes. You know that these hands of mine have worked to supply my own needs and even the needs of those who were with me. And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”

Dear God, if I had ever asked myself, “What would Paul say if he were seemingly speaking to me for the last time?” I suppose these verses would be the answer.

• Guard yourself
• Protect over other believers from a theological perspective
• Be part of edifying the church
• Watch out for false teachers/teaching
• The message of God’s grace builds you up and sets you apart
• I didn’t expect others to serve me so don’t expect to others to serve you
• Serve others
• You’ll be blessed if you give

Father, help me to carry the spirit of these words with me today. Holy Spirit, counsel me. Comfort me. Guide me. Show me how to do all of these things for others.

In Jesus’s name I pray,

Amen