For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in Him but also suffer for His sake, engaged in the same conflict that you saw I had and now hear that I still have. Philippians 1:29-30, emphasis added Suffer for His sake ... that doesn't sound like great news, huh? For us, children of God and co-heirs of Christ, we are granted not only a relationship with the Most High God but also suffering for the sake of His Son, Jesus Christ. The two go hand in ... [Read More]
{Joy Day 9} Standing Firm in One Spirit
Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel, and not frightened in anything by your opponents. This is a clear sign to them of their destruction, but of your salvation, and that from God. Philippians 1:27-28, emphasis added Paul was writing to a church he dearly loved, admonishing them to stand firm ... [Read More]
{Joy Day 8} Joy in the Faith
I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, so that you may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus, because of my coming to you again. Philippians 1:23-26, emphasis added Does your faith bring you joy? Is your life filled with joy that transcends all things ... [Read More]
{Joy Day 6} Christ Is Proclaimed
Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former proclaim Christ out of rivalry, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment. What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will ... [Read More]
{Joy Day 4} The Fruit of Righteousness
And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so, be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:9-11, emphasis added Our righteousness can only come through Jesus Christ, through His work in us, His strength for us, His grace through us. Is your life bearing the fruit of His ... [Read More]
{Joy Day 1} Grace and Peace
Welcome to my first "official" 31 Days series. *I did share some reflections from my own journey of faith every day in October last year.* We'll be spending just a few moments every day journeying through the Book of Philippians. I'll share some verses, a thought or two, and a prayer. My hope and prayer is that you will be encouraged and challenged to live the joy-filled life Christ promises us (John 15:11). Let's jump in! Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints ... [Read More]
