Good morning everybody. I was praying earlier this morning and felt God speaking to me about this verse. I could have wrote a book expounding on this verse I think. With all Paul had suffered, he understood it was all for Christ glory, He was tired and in prison, and he knew that heaven was not far away and longed for it. But he also knew God was using him while he remained here. He edified the Philippian church, and kept his eyes on Christ. He never wavered, he never lost the focus of his life – to share the love and Christ and bring Him glory. I pray the next trial you endure, your faith is strengthened as Paul, and not weakened as your enemy thinks it will. Press on, for the glory of God.
What do you live for?
Philippians 1:21 For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
A one sentence summary of the apostle Paul. Nothing else in his life mattered but Christ. He describes his life as ‘is Christ’, abiding in Christ, centering on Christ; all other matters simply did not matter. He had come from a leader of religion, in the persecution and death of Christians, to a death to himself and slave to Christ’s Glory. He was persecuted all his remaining days, but never wavered on his focus or faith. Can you say the same thing about your faith when the going gets rough?
If anyone told you that being a Christian would be easy, they lied. Christ told the apostles in Matthew 10:22 “You will be hated by all for My names sake.” When Christ and that eternal security dwell inside you, people notice that something makes you different. Some are drawn towards you, others rebel against you. Tough times will come as a result of following Christ. But percever in your faith, look for those you can reach as a result of what you are facing. For God has allowed what you are facing to strengthen you, and encourage others. Don’t let the world drag you down, for what you have will be lifted up.
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