[Together as a community, we are reading the book of Philippians. Find the Plan or Subscribe to #SheReadsTruth by Email ]
Have you ever had a time in your life when you crave spending time with Him? Where not only do you desire that closeness, that intimacy with Him, but you find yourself talking about Him. A lot. But talking in a way that is just every day conversation, and it just flows naturally. Because your heart has become so in tune with His, it’s overflowing and pouring out.
That is the way it is with Paul. When I read this section of scripture, I visualize his hand–I picture him as a lefty–frantically writing these words, barely legible to anyone but him. He just can’t write the words fast enough. He can’t get them down on paper as fast as he wants to share them. These words are simply bursting out of Him, and he is filled with joy–despite his current situation. He has fallen so in love with Christ, that he just wants the world to know Him too.
Paul describes two types of people sharing the gospel: those preaching with selfish ambition and those with pure motives. After Paul describes those teaching the gospel without sincere hearts, I wanted him to say something like, “disregard what they teach.” But he doesn’t. His focus is sharing the gospel to as many people as possible. He goes as far a saying “the motive doesn’t matter to me,” [v.18] as long as Christ is taught. Mind you, Paul does not approve their motives: not in the least bit. But he doesn’t claim to be God–he can’t judge another man’s heart. So instead, Paul chooses to encourage the sharing of Christ to those who haven’t heard it yet.
He ends this chapter with a challenge, bringing us back to the important One: Christ. Regardless of opposition or suffering, it is Christ who saves. It is Christ who unites us.
- It’s a slippery slope when we begin to assign motives to another one’s heart. Is there an example of this in your life? Take this time to ask God to help you release that to Him: remember He is the only one who can see the heart.
- Close your eyes and imagine Paul. He is in prison. He is in chains. He is suffering, yet He never stops sharing the gospel message. Apply this to your life: what have you allowed to stand in the way of sharing the gospel?
- Find a blank page and start writing a prayer. Mark this day as the start of a life that is overflowing with Christ’s love and joy.
{ 86 comments… read them below or add one }
Great insight on not assigning motive to people. Within the Body of the church, I can think of so many contentious arguments I've seen because people misread someone's motives. "If the leaders decide not to provide funds for my pet program, it's because they don't like me or don't care." "For the past three weeks the worship leader has been including songs that were thirty years old, he must not want young people at this service…" It is difficult for me on many days to realize that my fellow believers will make decisions very sure that what they are doing, furthers the Kingdom. That's their main motivator, not whether it keeps me happy or makes me feel included. It's a matter of training and discipline for me to say, "How is Christ being lifted up by their action?" Rather than, "Gosh, that decision was really self-serving/dumb/offensive."
Paul is writing with eternity in his mind, in that he views every action, every interaction, every blessing, every chain, as a way to talk about his love for Christ. This reminds me again of how radically different Christianity is from other faiths, and from the rest of the world. Why Christianity grew exponentially in the first few centuries following the time of Christ. When Paul talks about being awarded with suffering, and he says “to live is Christ and to die is gain”, it is so counterintuitive to the world’s way of thinking. He says that suffering is a blessing because it allows him to draw near to Christ and it gives him a platform to “preach” Christ. The early Christians, many of whom were martyred and tortured for their faith, seemed to deem suffering and even dying as a chance to proclaim their faith. In no way is my life threatened or in danger as a result of my belief, and while I rejoice that we American Christians have so much freedom, sometimes in that freedom, we forget that there are still so many who do not know God! I pray that I might view my interactions, my actions, my “chains”, and my circumstances as a way to share the comfort and joy I find in God. I need that eternal vision and focus.
this passage reminds me to not judge others motives, whether it is in faith or life. What people do around me or to me often have different motives than I assign them and whether what they did is right or wrong I can't judge them and need to forgive.
The gospel must be told.. whatever the motives maybe, wherever you may find yourself. You cannot afford to go quiet on the gospel .. Paul just simply hammered on this truth to us.. bound or free
Phillipians 1:29 (MSG)
“29 There’s far more to this life than trusting in Christ. There’s also suffering for him. And the suffering is as much a gift as the trusting.”
I used to doubt this truth. I no longer do… I have seen how God uses our suffering in so MANY ways, all directed to further our faIth or the faith of others; he uses our suffering as a gift of encouragement, a way to connect with others who suffer, a way to make us ‘approachable’ to one who questions… I could go on and on. It’s NOT pleasant to suffer, but it IS a gift I can give to Him (being willing to endure WHATEVER He brings), and a gift that rebounds a blessing back when I allow Him to work through my suffering. I love You Lord, and I trust You.
Today’s reading was a good reminder to speak of god and his truths no matter where I am. Sometimes…a lot of times, I feel like being a stay home mom limits my ability to spread the news. I realized Paul spoke of The Lord no matter where he was. There are people right under my nose who need to hear about God. My children. It also helped me to see that in this technology filled world, I can speak the truth on Facebook!
I just think it’s so awesome & inspiring how joyful Paul was! Like he was IN jail which I’m sure was way more awful back then and he was still so happy and joyful and rejoicing over the fact that Christ was getting shared, regardless of how He was excited for people to hear the Good News. Even in jail he was making a difference, making the believers in jail even more confident and encouraging them in their walk. Such powerful stuff.
Good afternoon ladies. I'm just waking up and the first thing I did is read this scripture, which O so amazing!!!! It's always amazing how God will convict your heart sometimes through his word or through his people. We just have to be open-minded to talking and being a blessing to whomever it is that God would want us to be a blessing to someone else. This is my prayer that us women all over the world would cry out to God and live as BOLD, FEARLESS, SHARP WOMEN OF GOD'S KINGDOM. AMEN!!!! HAVE A BLESSED DAY EVERYONE.
After reading this devo it brings to mind a very uncomfortable place for obvious reason;the place of trail the night seasons in the believers life.I find that I always end up in the place of Paul with greater victory and a expanded testimony of my walk with Christ. But oh if i could just remember that the trying of my faith is for the greater good at the start of every night season or trial. But i know better than that sometimes it has to look and seem impossible to the human eye that God would i. return get the glory! oh how great is the Lord that he would allow us to learn of him and experience him like this
I feel encouraged that despite Paul's suffering he was filled with such an obvious joy. This speaks to my heart especially at this time in my life. I feel as though my plate is really full right now with helping my husband overcome thyroid cancer, along with being thrre for my three teenage daughters who are all dealing with individual struggles, and with my own everyday life issues. I'm grateful Paul gives us an example of how we can be filled with so much joy simply because we get to proclaim to the world the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is through His sacrifice that we like Paul can live Happily Ever After no matter what we face everyday. Lots of love Isca
Check out my blog at: happilyeverafterwithisca.blogspot.com
I am really enjoying my readings and the questions attached to them, as I stopped and examined myself I realized that I have let being a stay at home mom and not really being in contact or knowing that many people where I live, keep me from sharing Christ with as many people as I could. As I read it seemed to click to me, sharing Christ doesn’t always mean face to face discussion or even talking to anyone you know but it could be posting on sites like this one or maybe starting a blog or sparking a conversation with a complete stranger. I truly believe Paul is a wonderful example of what a follower of Christ should be. I thank for opening my eyes to things as I continue to get deeper in his word and more intimate with him daily.
I have come to understand that not every place God calls us to walk will be easy, many times there will pain. But I must determine to know that I am there for His plan & purpose and not mine. I also must not allow criticism creep in and cause me to loose my focus. I must seek Him first and see what He wants for, because He knows more than anyone else what & why I am called to walk in certain places.
About 5 months ago I was promoted at my job. I don’t know what hell feels like, but from reading the bible it sounds tortuous. I experienced torture on a level that I could not understand. The people I thought that were for me being promoted or at least I thought would be happy, truly wasn’t. They actually became bullies. I remember feeling some kind of suffering and not really understanding why. I cried every night that I came home from work. I prayed and sought out guidance. I read about Paul today and I began to think instead of feeling like why me. I should have had an attitude like why not! I know God loves me and I know he knows exactly how much I can bare. I also know he placed me in position to be able to be a light to darkness. When I read in the scripture about how the attacks are those of the enemy, but how God will allow us to win (paraphrased) for his glory so that people can see Him. I appreciate the “suffering” because it allowed people to see the grace of God on my life. I trust appreciated this reading this morning.
Umm what have ii let stand in the way of sharing the gospel? Probably my shyness and not wanting to affend anyone……. See now a days kids my age always watch their mouths because they don’t want to affend anyone. And maybe sometimes we should because it gets people really thinking right? Well I will start praying to God to help me become less shy and start sharing the gospel more. Because God is more important than friends…..
The words that jumped out at me was Paul's response to the others.motives. His concern was that Christ was being preached and not what motivated the preaching. I sometimes find myself picking apart and reacting to the motives . I am reminded today that this is Gods business and He is more than capable to handle it.
Prayer:
Father in Jesus name I come, first repenting for the times I did not allow you to be Lord of all, by trying to work things out on my own.
I thank you for Brother Paul who shows me that no matter the circumstances nor situations that arise my focus and goal is to glory in the kingdom of God.
No matter the state we are in, may we have a word to speak to those who are weary.
Amen
Paul gives believers, especially me, a much needed reality check! It is so easy to get distracted by my circumstances and desire for a quick fix, that my focus is not on my Saviour and His purpose for all that I am going thru. I am humbled by this passage and challenged to turn my eyes upon Jesus…look full in His wonderful face…and the things of earth will grow strangely dim…in the light of His glory and grace!
I’m a work in progress with regards to knowing what God has planned for me. I still have fears but praying wholeheartedly to Him and trusting Him gives me strength to fight these fears.
I need to live as a citizen if the kingdom of heaven. This is difficult after so many years living in fear of basic human hardships: losing my job, letting down my clients, failing my children, failing to find a husband, living the rest of my years alone, growing old and weak and ill. But the biggest fear is to fail to realize God’s plan for me. If I fix my eyes on God I will achieve this one thing with His help: realizing His plan for me. This is living as a citizen of heaven. I pray that we all achieve His heavenly goals.
As a believer we have to stand firm in Christ and know that God called us to deliver his massage to the non believers just. We are vessels and we should live according to the promises of GOD
I am new to this plan and I am happy that I did this. Nice to learn from the Bible as well as from all of ur perspectives.
This passage helped to remind me that I am not up to doing God's job, but with love and prayer, I may be up to helping to serve Him. I will pray more about this passage and work to apply it to my day to day.
I am so encouraged by the posts that you all have written. What a blessing that we can share with each other freely. I have been thinking a lot about the verse, “to live is Christ and to die is gain.” I have always thought that the first part, to live is Christ, is packed with wisdom and truth. But sometimes I wonder if I understand it fully. My understanding of it is that the only way we really live the free and bountiful life Christ called us to live is through Christ himself and the freedom and strength and blessings he gives us every day. So, as believers, we must remember and ask Christ to guide us each day because he is our lifeblood. Does anyone else have thoughts on this verse and how we can apply it to our lives?
I see the message of humility and putting Him first. Being careful to examine that my motives are for Him and not for myself.
Lord i pray You will show me where I need change in my life, I want my motives to be pure and for You out of love and pure devotion to You Lord. I want my actions to be pleasing to You so that I will honor You name. Thank You for the second chance You have given me and for Your love, grace, kindness, forgiveness, compassion and so many things God! In Your holy name I pray Amen
Such a challenge:not only are we to share the gospel daily but examine our motives while doing it.I know my pride gets in the way of me sharing the gospel whole heartedly. Jesus raise up women that love you so much to step aside and let you be the lead!
Today's message really speaks so many different truths… Outward expression of Christ, not being judge mental, and suffering for Him.
I am most convicted with the judgement – Paul's courage is just leaving me speechless when he says that he is not God and cannot judge another man's heart. He doesn't even think twice about that person, just that they are preaching a message and he wants the world to hear it because it concerns his God. That speaks volumes to me. I pray for that attitude and love that another humans actions are not even my concern.
I closed my eyes a I saw Paul chained in a stone cell with minimal light writing this words of encouragement in the least encouraging situation. I hear him the thankfulness that good or bad motives God is being talked about. Paul considers death and heaven and seeing the Father only to think of the body of chirst and unbelievers.
I read this a thought of all my misopperunities to speak and bring fame to Christ and salvation up… it saddens me. But I still have time to live in the overflow of joy and love and show and share that with other and that already brings joy to my heart.
I am encouraged by this passage and you all to make today different to live in overflow to tune my heart to God and live and show and share His love in joy in ALL situations.
He is the only one who can see the heart
That was powerful to me. I have judged hearts when I should not have.
I pray for every man, woman and child every night for as long as I can remember. I try to think of others before myself, even when I don’t feel up to par. Sometimes I feel like Paul, preaching to the masses with the hopes that the importance of what I’m saying will reach their hearts instead of their mind.
How inspired and utterly amazed at all your comments!!! I am in awe at Paul’s amazing boldness for Christ …I pray that I can have a boldness and not be hindered by fear on my job, at my school, or even at the grocery store and spread the amazing love of Christ to all I meet! That I can be an encourager and share my lifes testimony to heal the hurting and reach out to children and families…not for selfish gain or motives but because I know that God lives and Jesus came that we can have life and have it more abundantly…in Jesus name Amen!
Thank you Paul and you amazing women for encouraging me
I just began this devotional….I am thinking about the sentence " Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the Gospel." Sitting here and reflecting on Paul's situation and that is his thought. Astounding! I am divorced and I oftentimes get discouraged or saddened by this and then God speaks through Paul…this has happened to advance the kingdom. I despite my situation am to praise and thank and love our Lord. He gave up everything for me and I am to tell of his wonderful deeds and show how they have impacted my life. Where am I leading others…..? I must ask this of myself. My situation is not ideal nor is it fun, but it is useful as God has allowed in my life and I have the opportunity to show others his faithfulness despite my selfishness.
Let me tell you God is faithful and loving even though I deserve none of his love. He has provided and kept me in my home….even given me opportunities to share his love with others despite feeling unloved at times.
Lord please keep me centered on the Gospel truth. Keep my eyes on your love. Let me see the opportunities that you present for me to share the gospel and lead me to continued repentance. I do not want to whine I want to praise! You deserve it continually!
I too sister am where u r. God has created a hugh opportunity for me to share and spread the gospel. I realize that I could miss the opportunity If I continue to question. God is soverign. Only he knows the heart!. Most importantly he’s got our backs. No weapon…..
I have just started this devotional and two things got me thinking. The first thing was that as she desribe the yearning of Paul to want to share the gospel the fact that he just couldn’t stop talking about Him, my heart is feel with nostalgia and sadness because I am longing to go back to that place. Secondly the Lord spoke directly about judging other people’s intentions. I thought I had dealt with that a while ago, but a conversation that I had no later than yesterday came back in my mind, as I was doing just that, and all I can do this morning is repent.
“Lord I want to have your heart. This morning I am asking for forgiveness for being so judgemental. You know the hearts and motivations, I don’t and frankly I shouldn’t care, because you creating this opportunity for me to share the gospel in these last days. This morning I am surrending to you as I express my desire and my yearning to grow closer to you and more in love with you each day to live in tune with the rythm on your heart…”
what stood out for me was… how we can never judge anothers heart. Work n ministry for as long as I have… oh how we judge one another, especially our pastors. What has always touched me is how paul discounts the motives but emphazies who is being talked about. All is gain when the word of God is spoken. It is the word that breaks the yolk. God doesn’t need no help n defending himself. We as men and women n ministry spend so much time disqualifying each other. This is what the enemy wants. We knock each other out silencing voices that God has qualified.
Remember if God can use a donkey he can use anyone to accomplish his purpose!
Before I read cats wait I always ask him to allow me to see myself and also allow me to make his word aplicable to my life everyday and as I sit here on my couch that is exactly what he has done he hassearch my heart and responded by showing me things in it not pleasing to Him.
And because of that I sit here convicted because He is showing me that the judgement and assumptions of impure motives stem from my past hurt and pain rejection abandonment n abuse. He is showing me that He is ready to heal deliver and set me completely free so that i may spread the goooood news to those that are ost. So now my prayer is to softeb my heart God hral me so that I may speak of You in Pure joy and excitement. God show me your people as you see them. Change my perception. Fix my ears do that I may hear they’re hearts cry to You Lord.
I really enjoyed reading this passage today! Many time we overlook the big picture of our purpose when thing don’t go our way, or when people treat us unkind. But we have to remember to be more like Paul and just be about spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ, No Matter What!!!
Personally, I’m learning a thing or two on the subject of judging others. Whenever I criticise someone, I find myself doing that same thing not too long after and I start feeling like a hypocrite and I’ll hate myself for it. So subsequently, whenever I find the need to criticise, The Holy Spirit will remind me of Romans 2:1,3 and I’ll promptly shut my mouth. To God be the glory.
The part of selfish ambition vs pure motives really spoke to me. I see so many walking around with a Bible and preaching the word of God, but their actions are so unmatched! I am glad this was brought up, because it is true…Really we can only encourage the sharing of the word of GOd as we are not in the place to judge.
A part of my prayer is that I stop allowing my sin to keep me from sharing the gospel. That I realize that God is bigger than the shame that comes with my imperfect life & he convicts out of love, he doesn’t condemn. It is the enemy that wants to shut me up when I disobey God. But even in my journey of sanctification I share the love, joy & truth that is Christ. He is worthy even when I’m not.
I really liked vs. 20 "expectation and hope" "Christ shall be magnified in my body" no matter what. I am in a difficult work situation and if I am honest, Christ is not always magnified "no matter what." My prayer today is that Christ will be magnified even in unpleasant situations.
I loved what you said when you said "Paul did not say don't listen to them." So true, we can not judge a man hearts. Only God knows, just make sure Christ is at the center of what is being said.
Amber, you took the words right out of my mouth!
Prayer: God help us not to be afraid to be bold and stand out for Your glory. It doesn’t matter if people know our name or anything about us as long as they see You through us. Help us to live boldly and courageously for You and share Your love and truth with everyone.
Hey Y'all! Some of my favorite verses in this passage were:
V.20-21 MSG: I don't expect to be embarrassed in the least. On the contrary, everything happening to me in this jail only serves to make Christ more accurately known, regardless of whether I live or die. They didn't shut me up; they gave me a pulpit! Alive, I'm Christ's messenger; dead, I'm his bounty. Life versus even more life! I can't lose.
V. 27-30 MSG: Meanwhile, live in such a way that you are a credit to the message of Christ. Let nothing in your conduct hang on whether I come or not. Your conduct must be the same whether I show up to see things for myself or hear of it from a distance. Stand united, singular in vision, contending for people's trust in the Message, the good news, not flinching or dodging in the slightest before the opposition. Your courage and unity will show them what they're against: defeat them, victory for you- and both because of God. There's far more to this life than trusting in Christ. There's also suffering for him. And the suffering is as much a gift as the trusting. You're involved in the same kind of struggle you saw me go through, on which you are now getting an updated report in this letter.
MY THOUGHTS:
I have allowed my fear of talking to people stop me from sharing the gospel. I compare myself to others and am ashamed that I am not like them. When instead I should be looking at God and trusting Him, looking to His character and allowing His will to be #1 in my life. This is my prayer. That I would have a hunger for God that is so ravenous it consumes every facet of my life. No matter what trials I may face. No matter what blessings I may be given. Let me never forget that in the good times and bad I must trust and cling to God. He is my everything. His Message of Hope and Glory is my job. His cross is my burden to bear now. Let me never forget His love for me. His sacrifice for me. God I want to be more like you Lord. Please let your will be done in my life. May I live courageously for the rest of my days.
Its amazing how Paul was in chains and still stand for christ it goes to show that no matter what comes our way we should stand for christ and let those who dont him see what god can do
For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Philippians 1:21 NKJV)
For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. Philippians 1: 23NKJV)
Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel,
and not in any way terrified by your adversaries, which is to them a proof of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that from God. (Philippians 1: 27, 28 NKJV)
“Have you ever had a time in your life when you “crave” spending time with Him? Where not only do you desire that closeness, that intimacy with Him, but you find yourself talking about Him, a lot. But talking in a way that is just every day conversation, and it just flows naturally. Because your heart has become so in tune with His, it’s overflowing and pouring.”
I crave to crave this… Lord let my only desire be for you and time with you… So that my heart can become like yours and in tune with yours so that it overflows with your love to those around me… For not I, but Christ…
I had to read and reread the passages about Paul not caring about motives several times before I truly got it. At first, I didn't totally understand how Paul could claim to not care if people were preaching about Jesus with poor motives…but then I did get it. We are the ultimate judge, all we need to do is share the love and meaning of Jesus Christ and hope that others are doing it purely as well. If they aren't, God knows.
Paul is such an amazing and inspiring character. I would love to do an entire study just on him! Does anyone know of any great books on his life as a follower of Christ?
1. I probably too often judge the motives of my nephew. I thought he was doing a lot of bad things and I found out recently that his girlfriend was addicted to pills. I believe he was trying to hide the shame of it all now.
2. I think what stops me a lot from sharing the gospel a lot is that I hate when people call me religious.
3. I will write a prayer. That is something I haven’t done in a long time.
Christ in us!
Loving the passage today! Loving that Paul didn’t judge he just moved on to more listeners…all the while behaving Godly. Such a good pattern for our lives!
I love, love, love Philippians. I am so challenged by Paul's focus on Christ and his total commitment to spreading the gospel and serving Him. This book is teaching me so much about living joyfully and serving God wholeheartedly.
"what have you allowed to stand in the way of sharing the gospel?"
Uh…SELF!
Up until only very recently, I must sadly admit that I have been far more preoccupied with BEING KNOWN by others than with making Jesus Christ known.
Reading my bible daily is changing my focus and giving me a renewed passion for Christ and for sharing the hope I have in Him.
The more I read about and think about Him and all He's done for me, the less I think of me!
HE alone is worthy! ;)
I to am gaining more understanding from all of your post. I lost my way and been living in the world trying to do things on my own because of life’s hurts, losses , disappointments . As I seek peace that passes all understanding , happiness that God gives and no man can take away . Began to experience his Steady, steadfast, unwavering, firm, reliable, solid love . I find myself back in the word asking god to breath his breath into my spirit life and to be filled , to know his voice when he speaks . To open my heart to fully understand him an be able to apply it into my daily walk with him . To restore my faith so that I don’t just think of his grace, mercy, Steady, steadfast, unwavering, firm, reliable, solid love but that it is written on the breast plate of my heart and that I feel it and know its truth and be able to share it to others around me.
Oh, this passage. When Paul talks of how much he is needed in the flesh for the people around him, I fell apart. I want to serve in that way.
I have a friend who needs my help, who needs my encouragement, and whom I know could benefit from hearing the Good News. She saved my life – quite literally – last year, and now I feel God is calling me to return the help. I need to remember whilst I'm in my own chains, there are others who need ME. Oh, how I wish to be like Paul.
I'm amazed at how much more understanding I gain from reading everyone's comments! Everyone adds their own unique perspective which adds depth to the study. :) I'm super blessed y'all!
I feel the same way. So incredibly grateful to have found this community.
I love the comment about following Christ based on selfish motives vs. pure ones. How true this is in so many aspects of life. I pray today that I am pure in all that I do and hand this off to the lord to keep me strong.
What sticks out the most to me is that Paul had clear priorities. What I mean by that is his faith was so strong, his mission so clear, his love for Christ so grand that nothing else bothered him. His priories so clear that prison, chains, persecution, hate and any other earthy abuse didn’t bother him. As if it was all an illusion and Christ was he saw and joy was all he felt. It’s beautiful and inspiring! What else’s matters than the love of Christ and faith in our God? Nothing.
Today I am going to feel Gods joy no matter what my day brings!!
“I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficent courage so that now as always Christ will be exhaulted in my body whether by life or by death” (v.20) Simply amazing. Just gonna let that one soak in today.
Paul speaks so clearly and boldly that we as children and servants of God, we are to live a life on purpose. He used so many words that describe how we are to live and move on this earth…bold, without fear, courageous, not ashamed, living worthy of the gospel, etc. None of these words are passive! My life in Christ is active and it has a specific calling. I find myself living in fear of what my neighbors would think of me if I walked up to them to engage in a conversation or I clam up when I actually do talk to them and don't share the most important thing about my life. In reality, because of my identity in Christ I can have all the boldness in the world to engage with and love on the people that God has placed in my life! Jesus has already won, I get to just be apart of His finished work on the Cross!
What an encouragement and a challenge this morning to "let my manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ"! Now, if I could get my heart to believe this like my head does today! That is my pray for myself and all of you ladies this morning.
That is the hard part- getting your heat to follow your mind. I feel I have been given trial after trial- the most recent being an injury to my neck with severe pain. I have been disappointed in myself for being so miserable despite my knowledge of finding joy in EVERYTHING. Its so hard to put it in your heart and I feel like I need to rely on God for that to happen.
This morning I really have it pressed on my heart that I need to choose JOY all the time! No matter what the tasks I am doing or things I am going through I need to choose JOY!!
This selection really helped me to get out of my own head this morning!
This is one of my favorite passages ever. It just puts me in awe of God's strength that he inspired Paul to write this message in a super-uncomfortable, demeaning, humiliating station, and gave him eyes to see it as a perfect gospel-transportation device!
I love seeing how Paul says he struggles with wanting to go to be with Christ, yet knowing his work here isn't complete. Sometimes I feel like that…that this world has just lost complete sight of Christ and is fighting against Him….but our work is not yet complete.
My fear of man often keep my thought-that-want-to-be-actions, as just thoughts. I don't want to be a passive Christian. I want to boldly share my faith. It will get harder as the world pushes against believers more and more, but I don't want that to sway my convictions or my passion for my Savior.
I think the verse that jumps off the page for me is v. 29 "For you have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for him." When I consider my own circumstances, it's hard to say that I am "suffering" because the challenges that I face involve having a 6 year old medically fragile child. I don't consider taking care of my child "suffering". That said, our family's life has undergone so many challenges and issues that I would never wish on others. I know, however, that it is a privilege and a blessing to have her in our lives. I came to the realization a while back that He entrusted her to our care, if only for a short while. I believe that she has a purpose. I believe that through her, we are able to be a witness for Him. So, as it states in v. 29, it is a privilege to trust in Christ through this experience. I feel like I am only doing what I am supposed to be doing as her mother, but as I sit here on day 15 of her hospitalization, I am fully trusting in Him for answers and for healing. I believe He can use our situation for His glory if we only allow it.
Sarah, thanks for sharing your story. Being a mother of two healthy children, it's hard for me to imagine the struggles you are going through. Your testimony is powerful..thank you for being such a light to those around you.
Sarah I am praying for you and your daughter–God gives us all different ways to suffer. I can only imagine the grief you must be coping with. Words from a stranger can never help with that but it seems you are leaning on Him and you have given her life to Him. Praying God will turn it all to His glory.
It really struck a chord with me when Paul says that leaving this body and joining Christ would be far greater, but that he knows sticking it out on earth and suffering for Christ is worth every minute. This reminds me of a friend's mother who is suffering through terminal cancer at a relatively young age. It breaks my heart to see all the suffering going on, but behind all of that suffering is a woman who is spreading God's message by being so positive, continuously praising God throughout it all, and thanking God for every blessing in the midst of all her suffering. I'm sure at times it seems like leaving this body and going with Christ would be far better than the suffering, but she is changing lives and spreading the word with every minute she is still here…what a great blessing! I pray that all of us, suffering and not suffering, can use our blessing of life to spread God's word and encourage others!
I LOVE the words of verse 27…"Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ…" Too often, I focus on my citizenship on earth. I allow selfishness to creep in and overrule His promptings to bless someone else. I allow fear to creep in and overrule His commands to spread the Gospel. I allow incorrect thinking to creep in and overrule His definition of my worth and beauty. I allow sin to creep in and overrule His call on my life to live "holy" and "set apart." If I'm a daughter of the King, a citizen of heaven…there is a standard by which I should measure my thoughts, actions, and attitudes. There is always grace – grace, grace, and more grace…but I want to live "worthy" – I want to hear "Well done, sweet daughter. You were faithful."
Two things jump out at me today – the first being that our sharing about Christ is more important than our motives when we do so (though I do believe that our motives should be from a right heart), and second, that God uses our life experiences to shape our message. God has given each of us a unique story to share, with the message of God interwoven in the very fabric of our lives. Why wouldn’t I want to share that with those around me?
I so agree with you! God gives us each our own life stories so we can reach different kinds of people!
I appreciate the challenge in the first part of vs 27 "Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. (Philippians 1:27 NIV)"
When you think about Paul's situation and that he was able to conduct himself in such a manner..it's humbling, yet inspiring. That's my challenge/prayer for today.
I read ahead a bit yesterday and vs. 18 was the exact verse I texted my mom about. My husband is not a believer but has been more than willing to go to church, even on his own when I didn't. He asked for me to buy a bible study book for him, but I had the audacity to question his motives (not to his face) instead of praising the fact that he was hearing the word. I feel like when I question motives it takes the trust out of God's hands.
Also, sometimes I cater my conversation to those around me, sometimes not sharing what comes to mind about God because I don't want to offend. I pray to be more like Paul that nothing would stand in my way of sharing the gospel (even if it causes family drama ;).
I'll be praying for you and your marriage Dyan! That's not easy, but how cool that he is searching!!! I totally get the not sharing what comes to mind always. I have such fear of man sometimes, and it's just silly! Families are the *hardest* to share your heart because you don't want to burn bridges…but I'm reminded of a verse (can't remember where) that talks about how certain words are fitting for certain situations and just learning discernment. that's so tough, and I totally empathize! I have family that isn't believers as well and learning what to say and when, and when to just be a great example is the toughest!
I like what Stephanie said! At this point I am no suffering for Christ but I know that I quite possibly could be. Would I be willing to suffer for Christ if the opportunity presented itself? I think that I would. I used to live in Chicago and there were always preachers preaching Gods gospel on corners. What a great way to praise God and get the word out! I need an opportunity like that here in my small town. One way I show Gods love is by wearing my churches t shirt that has a Bible verse on it. I hope someone sees it and starts thinking about God and reading their Bible. This scripture a really stood out to me
“…stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them (those who oppose you) that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved.” Philippians 1: 27 and 28 NIV
I love this because there will always be people who oppose us! We just have to do what we are doing an stand firm in God and preach his gospel all while ignoring the haters!
so true. I honestly don't know what I'd do in paul's circumstance. I want to say I'd stand firm and not be afraid. That I'd suffer willingly, knowing that it was just a small taste of what Christ suffered. But I don't know. I want to really come to a stronger relationship with Jesus, so that I know beyond a doubt that I would suffer joyfully…
Love the Tshirt thing. Mine all wore out, I need to buy some more. :)
I definitely need to work on releasing my habit of assigning others' motives. It has been maddening me for awhile, particularly these last few weeks. In fact, just before sitting down to read this, I was folding laundry and fighting the urge to assign heart-motives to a neighbor who has been contentious towards me lately. I *know* that God is calling me to love her. That Christ wants me to be Him for her. If I keep putting words in her heart to explain to my overly-analytical mind why she treats me so poorly then it is I who will be the one poisoned by sin.
I am so grateful for this Scripture reading community. For this safe space in which to outwardly process the Truth that He is showing us all!
If you have a moment go to YouTube and watch the video called "Proof of your love" by for KIng & Country! While the video is kind of strange at first ( I had to watch it several time to understand what they were trying to get across) the message is loud and clear! We need to do all things with God's love!
Thank you, Stephanie! I had to watch it twice myself :) Thank you!
Beautifully said, I need to do the same thing with my coworke! Thx for sharing.
Such a wonderful prayer, Julia! :)
This morning, these words stood out to me: "your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me." I love Paul's dedication and passion to share Christ with the world, and this morning, I am praying this prayer: Lord, help me to inspire joy in You through all I do — through my actions, words, everything! In this season of my life, the Lord has blessed me with a variety of different creative pursuits, and I feel this section of scripture is really the heart behind everything I'm doing. I desire to inspire joy in Christ. I'm thankful for this reminder this morning, as I get ready to head out to work. Hope you all have a blessed day!
The whole time I was reading, I kept coming back to verse 14
"And because of my imprisonment, most of the believers[a] here have gained confidence and boldly speak God’s message[b] without fear." (NLT).
If God was using Paul's imprisonment, or suffering, to further his kingdom, why wouldn't he use me? Sometimes my "sufferings" seem so great, and I really allow them to get to me. People see our reactions. If I react in a worldy way, that does nothing. But people will really see God's work at hand when we can handle our situations with grace and even joy. Reacting negatively doesn't do anything to share God's truth. But seeking God, knowing he sees the bigger picture and he can take something that seems so rotten and bring something good out of it can make a difference. It brings opportunities to share God's work and truth.
This is such an awesome way of thinking and I'm so glad you shared it. Why wouldn't God use US through our difficulties or joys to let others know about him?? I think, sometimes, we get so caught up in our own journey that we forget that God is working for the good of all, through us.
Thanks for sharing about your actions… That is something I am working on and you are so right – reacting in a worldy way does nothing for me or Gods kingdom. Reacting in prayer and faith is what is of God and Christ Like. Thanks :)
If I only spent the next ten days on this passage alone I would have so much to think about and act on! However, the Spirit is pointing out one verse He wants me to act on and it is verse 29, " for it has been granted ( awarded, allowed) for you on behalf (support, interest, benefit) of Christ not only to believe (to take as true, understand, affirm, have not doubts) on Him, but ALSO to suffer( to undergo pain, injury, grief, agonize)."
I know, for myself, at this point in my walk with God I am not suffering! I don't even agonize or have grief for my faith! Yet Paul says I have been awarded with suffering on God behalf. It doesn't say I MIGHT have suffering it says I have been awarded with suffering. When I suffer for him it benefits Him and allows other to understand, affirm, and have no doubts (and me, also). I live a pretty serene life for Christ. I wake up, read and study my Bible , go to work, and come home. I have not been awarded suffering for Him. So I must ask myself what am I not doing that I should be doing? Paul was out there with the people, he was preaching the gospel without reservation! and for doing that was in prison. He was not a serene Christian and I have in my mind the picture of a on fire preacher standing on a street corner yelling about God! I can imagine people and guards yelling "be quiet!!!!!!!" and him just praising God even louder!!
Oh!! that I would find a way to be bold, with no fear, to suffer for God!
The thought that came to my mind reading Stephanie's comment was "seasons." The fact that you are not suffering now does not mean that you are not doing something you should be doing (usually). This is probably God's prep time in your life. The time when He in His graciousness is allowing you peace in which to build yourself up in His Word and ingrain His truths in your heart. Into most lives the rain does eventually fall. Early for some, later for others. Right now you are laying – or I should say He is laying in you – the firm foundation on which you will be able to withstand the storms when it is your time.
What strikes me about this passage is the utter simplicity and clarity of Paul’s understanding of his own life’s purpose: it’s solely and fully for the glory of Christ and for his readers’ “progress and joy in the faith”. He’s in prison, likely being treated as worthless, or even worse, worthy of degradation, yet we don’t hear him complaining about feeling unvalued or under appreciated or disrespected. He’s joyful, because he knows those things are meaningless. He knows his life isn’t about his achievement of success and happiness and comfort. He’s here to show the world Christ in all his glory, and he doesn’t fear how or when his life will come to an end in this realm because “to depart and be with Christ… is far better”. My prayer is that I may live my life like that, and I pray that for this beautiful community of women as well.
That is what stood out to me the most too! I feel like I have my priorities backwards some days. The little things get to me, I get scared or my feels get hurt. Does any of that really compare to the love of God and the grace we recieve? No, nothing can. No matter what I want the joy from God to be alive in me like it is for Paul. I, too, share your prayer.
Beautiful post and well said :)
Julia, thank you so much for stating so simply how Paul gives us an example of simply living for our savour and king. I join you in you prayer for all of us. I am excited to see how we change our world as God answers your prayer.