This Is the New Testament is part of a twelve-week thematic overview of the entire Bible. Each day we’ll read a thematic selection from a different book of the Bible, along with supplemental passages that show how the theme of that day’s main reading is found throughout Scripture. We’ll also read a brief summary of each book and a reflection on how the book fits into the larger story of Scripture. This week, we’ll continue reading the Pauline Epistles.
What Is Philippians? Philippians is one of Paul’s warmest letters, written to thank the church in Philippi for a gift and to inform them of his imprisonment. This letter communicates that because of the eternal hope of the gospel, joy is possible in every circumstance.
How Philippians Fits Into the Story: Paul’s letter to the Philippians teaches us about genuine Christian living. While nearly every theme he introduced here can also be found elsewhere in Scripture, this letter reveals how those themes impact our lives as believers. Philippians also contributes to our understanding of Christian commitment and what it means to be Christlike, even amidst suffering.
Reflection Questions:
1. What do you long for in this world more than Jesus? How does Jesus ultimately satisfy that desire?
2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption?
Take time to reflect on your responses and share what you are learning with others in the community in the comments.
My go to verse is from Philippians. It’s Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through CHRIST who gives me strength.” Almost eighteen years ago my older son died and that Christmas one of my brothers and family gave me a bracelet with this verse on it. Ever since then this has been my go to verse.
I don’t know how many of you read my comment from yesterday, but I praised God for having a loving, caring family. I know some may not have this and that is why I praise God for it. In my over 40 years as a nurse I have seen just the opposite of what I have. Yes, I do let my family know every chance I can.
Be blessed and praise the Lord for your loved ones.
Sisters I ask for prayers. Over the weekend my husband and I had a freak accident on a set of stairs, I’m all bruised and sore and he fractured his ulnar bone, we see the orthopedic surgeon tomorrow, please pray that it is just fractured and will not require major surgery. Please also pray for healing for both of us. We are extremely worried regarding if he needs surgery and how we can afford all the medical bills. Thank you all in advance. Hope all my Sisters have a great week.
I long very much for healing in my family-healing of depression and anger and spiritual blindness across generations. I pray for this, but I know it requires a choice and cooperation from those who are spiritually blind. It is so very hard and painful.
Do I long for this more than I long for Jesus? That is a great question…
Last comment posted too soon! I long for expansion of our family. God had blessed me with a wonderful and godly husband but our blessing of children has been delayed (until now I believe). We have our first ultrasound tomorrow and I have faith that God will continue to grow and protect this baby. Prayers for this are very much appreciated. Madison- my heart goes out to you, along with fervent prayers for your comfort. We had a miscarriage in April and it was the most traumatic thing to ever happen to me but God also used it to bring me closer to Him once the initial anger and shock wore off some. Angie, bless you for praying for all of us and for what you are doing for your work. Tina, I am so sorry for your loss of your nephew. I am praying for you and your family as well. Christa I will pray for you and your family’s health. Have a wonderful Monday everyone!
Praying now for tomorrow
I long for our family to be expanded. Like Sarah Adams I feel
What first came to mind is that I want Peace. And then as I was saying my prayers, I found myself saying to God how I want more of him. I want to feel his presence daily. To walk according to him. I know that I find peace in Him.
Praying for you all. I’m so sorry Tina. I lost a nephew and know how painful that is.
Can I ask for continued prayers for Tanner. He has improved with his balance in the last couple weeks. Praise God! So thankful for your prayers. I would like to ask for prayers for my husband, Tom. He is having some awful side effects from radiation. Bleeding and low blood pressure. Please pray that God puts his hands on my husband and heals him. Thank you
Angie, what a beautiful way to show Christ’s love to a hurting world. Thank you for reaching out the hand of God to our teachers. There is such discord in their working life right now. Now is the time for Jesus to shine.
Thank you again!
I long for peace, calm, stillness and quiet.