Similarly, Timothy was likely living with his parents when he was invited by Paul to join him in the preaching work. Being young and inexperienced, Timothy could have allowed a lack of confidence to hold him back. (Compare 1 Corinthians 16:10, 11 and 1 Timothy 4:12.) However, he accepted Paul’s invitation and enjoyed many blessings as a result.​—Acts 16:3-5.

IMITATE TIMOTHY​—SHOW LOVING CONCERN FOR OTHERS

8. Why did Paul choose Timothy as a traveling companion? (Philippians 2:19-22)

⁸ Paul needed courageous traveling companions at his side when he returned to cities where he had faced opposition. He first selected an experienced Christian named Silas to accompany him. (Acts 15:22, 40) Paul later also chose Timothy as his associate. What stood out about Timothy? For one thing, he had a good reputation. (Acts 16:1, 2) He also genuinely cared about people.​—Read Philippians 2:19-22.

9. How did Timothy show that he truly cared about his brothers and sisters?

⁹ From the beginning of his ministry with Paul, Timothy showed that he cared more about others than about himself. For that reason, Paul could confidently leave him in Beroea to encourage the new disciples there. (Acts 17:13, 14) On that occasion, Timothy no doubt benefited from the example of Silas, who also remained in Beroea. Later, though, Paul sent Timothy on his own to Thessalonica to strengthen the Christians in that city. (1 Thess. 3:2, ftn.) Over the next 15 years or so, Timothy learned to “weep with those who [wept],” showing empathy for any who were suffering. (Rom. 12:15; 2 Tim. 1:4) How can young Christian men imitate Timothy?

10. How did a brother named Woo Jae learn to show more personal interest in others?

¹⁰ A brother named Woo Jae learned to show more personal interest in others. When he was a young adult, Woo Jae found it difficult to engage older brothers and sisters in conversation. So he simply greeted them at the Kingdom Hall and walked away. An elder suggested that Woo Jae start conversations by telling his fellow believers what he appreciated about them. The elder also urged him to think about what the other person might be interested in. Woo Jae applied this advice in his interactions with others. An elder today, Woo Jae says: “I now find it easier to have meaningful conversations with people of different ages. I feel good knowing that I have a better understanding of other people’s concerns. This has been very useful to me in helping my fellow believers.”

11. How can young brothers develop personal interest in others who are in their congregation? (See also picture.)

¹¹ You young brothers can likewise learn to show personal interest in others. When at meetings, take an interest in individuals of different ages and backgrounds. Ask them how they are doing, and then listen. In time, you may realize how you can help them. Perhaps you will learn that an older couple need help using the JW Library^® app. Or you may learn that they do not have plans to work with anyone in the ministry. Could you help such ones with their electronic devices or arrange to work with them in the preaching work? By taking the initiative to help others, you will set a fine example for all.