Today’s Scripture verse, just a fragment of a verse really, contains only 3 words. Actually only 2 words in Greek! Yes, exerpted from 2nd Corinthians 11:26, Paul says of himself … “in journeyings often.”

He is listing some of the trials and difficulties he (as an Apostle) has faced over the years, writing this catalog about halfway (some say two-thirds) through his relatively long Ministry.

Paul’s “sufferings” here are his “badge of authenticity” in reality. Some false Preachers in that day bragged about living in luxury and amassing great wealth. Not Paul, never! He will “glory” (brag) about his infirmities! His hardships! His trials!

So … “in journeyings often.”

The noun “journeyings” is “hodoiporia” in Greek. The prefix “hodos” just means “way, road.” And “poreuomai” means “to travel, to walk, to depart.” (To travel up the road!) The word as Paul used it here is only found twice in the whole New Testament. It’s other location? John 4:6, used of Jesus. “Now Jacob’s well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with his JOURNEY, sat thus on the well: and it was about the sixth hour.” I’ve capitalized the word for easier identification.

Paul’s Saviour (Lord) traveled.

Now, so does His follower!

Do notice please that Paul pluralized the word, “journeyings.”

Lots of trips!

The first, second and third, “missionary journeys,” often so called.

And the long trip to Rome, under arrest, the shipwreck.

And (maybe) a trip to Spain and back, preaching of course.

Total the miles … at least 9,000 by land.

Then add another 7,000 by sea.

Minimally, no less than 15,000 miles, “journeyings” being the right word indeed!

Before automated transportation!

We’re talking “foot” miles, or else “sailing (ocean-going) vessels.”

“In journeyings often.”

The qualifier “often” is “pollakis,” meaning “frequently.” I would simply define it as “many, many times.”

Paul, considering his first century environment … remarkably became a world traveler, obeying Jesus’ Great Commission.

My little ministry probably takes me 35,000 miles a year. But with cars and planes making those trips possible, even enjoyable! I’ve never ridden a donkey to a Revival Meeting!

Oh, how we should admire Paul.

And in so doing ask the Lord to make us also … “faithful” … to the One Who died to save us from our sin!

Amen.

— Dr. Mike Bagwell