Both Epaphroditus and Timothy, and of course, Paul, have the direction of their lives aimed fully towards the Gospel of Jesus Christ. That is what they are all about. They have each risked everything, many times over, for the sake of the good news about Jesus. They probably evaluated the cost. With eyes of faith they looked into the future and saw the lives of the people who would be touched by Jesus through their ministries if they persevered through the difficulties they continually faced. And they likely decided that no matter what happened, even if it meant death, which back then was a very likely possibility, it would be worth the cost.
Each of them risked their lives for the cause of Christ. They saw that there were countless people heading towards an eternity without Jesus, and they were willing to give up everything so some might be saved.
It should make us question the direction of our lives. What are we living for? Why do we get out of bed in the morning? Think about it. What gives direction to your life? Why do you do the things you do?