THURSDAY September 26, 2024

Maturity of Mind

Philippians 3:15-16

Paul knew that if the Philippians joined together with him to have the same mind––pressing toward the goal for the prize of the upward call in Christ Jesus––they would be united in one purpose! He showed them how to be mature, to have a spiritual mind. They needed to keep things in perspective from God’s viewpoint. No matter what, Paul showed them that despite his trials, he kept his mind and heart on eternity.

Paul kept his mind on the Lord, even when God allowed a thorn from Satan, to buffet him. He had seen unimaginable things in heaven and needed to remain humble:

But I must not be too proud of the wonderful things that were shown to me. So a painful problem was given to me—an angel from Satan, sent to make me suffer, so that I would not think that I am better than anyone else (2 Corinthians 12:7 ERV).

When we look with our eyes at our problems and situations in life, if our mind is fixed on this world, everything will look bleak; but if we keep our mind on Christ, we will realize that, somehow, He will work it out for our good: You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! (Isaiah 26:3 NLT).

Some of you today may be thinking, I do not think I will make it through the night! Listen, God will take care of you. You will make it through the night because He is with you, and He will give you His strength.

As a Christian, like Paul, live for eternity. Keep in mind, the Lord one day will be knocking at your door to take you home. While there is time, do His will; and when your work for Him is completed, He will take you home. This world is temporal. It is passing away, but in heaven, you have reached your goal––your prize awaits!

Spiritual maturity is not reached by the passing of the years, but by obedience to the will of God.
~Oswald Chambers~

WEDNESDAY September 25, 2024

Pressing Toward the Goal

Philippians 3:12-14

Although Paul was a spiritual giant in the eyes of the Philippians, he had not yet attained his goal. He was actively pressing forward to the goal, a heavenly prize in his upward call in Christ. The word press means “to agonize.” Leaving the past behind him, Paul pressed forward to see what God had for him in the future. He knew he had not reached his final stage of sanctification––glorification.

Paul knew he was a sinner and that he had failed many times in his life. As a believer, he openly voiced his internal struggles:

And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway (Romans 7:18-19 NLT).

Paul knew he was not perfect. In his life, he had sinned many times against God. After his salvation, he won many spiritual battles, but he also knew he fell short. Paul understood he was not perfect, but that did not stop him from moving ahead.

The Bible does not teach sinless perfection. It teaches that we are sinners. We all sin. Every day we fall short. So what do we do when we sin? First John 1:9 tells us: If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Do not live your life in the past; see what God has for you in the future. Look ahead! Serve the Lord! We attain our goal when we reach eternity––then we become perfect before the Lord. Keep short accounts with God and keep pressing forward in Christ Jesus.

Your life is short, your duties many, your assistance great, and your reward sure; therefore faint not, hold on and hold up, in ways of well-doing, and Heaven shall make amends for all.
~Thomas Brooks~

TUESDAY September 24, 2024

Knowing Christ

Philippians 3:10-11

Look at Paul’s life. He had a solid faith in Christ––in knowing Him and the power of His Resurrection. He knew Jesus through personal experience. Paul had an incredible depth in his relationship with his Lord. He understood God was using his sufferings to conform him to the image of Christ.

How do we come to know Christ? We come to know Jesus when we are born again of His Spirit and develop our personal relationship with Him. We walk in the newness of life––in the power of His Resurrection. How are we conformed to His death? This is when we reckon the old man to be dead––this speaks of the crucified life. Paul explained this clearly by using the symbolism found in a Christian’s baptism:

Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it? Or have you forgotten that when we were joined with Christ Jesus in baptism, we joined him in his death? For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives (Romans 6:2-4 NLT).

What does death to self mean? It means crucifying your fleshly desires and passion through self-denial––taking up your cross, the instrument of death. Jesus told His disciples: “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me” (Matthew 16:24). This can be painful, but needful, if you are to be conformed to His image.

A Cross-less religion has no power. If you do not know the Cross, you have no power to live the Christian life. No Cross, no eternity; no Cross, no life; no Cross, no Savior. As you submit your life to Christ, He will bring you to a place where you will become more like Him. He will prepare you for heaven.

Taking up my cross means a life voluntarily surrendered to God.
~Arthur W. Pink~

MONDAY September 23, 2024

Christ Our Righteousness

Philippians 3:9

Paul was a self-righteous Pharisee. He had discovered that there was not one person righteous––all have sinned. As a theologian, he masterfully explained to us that our righteousness is in Christ alone. Listen and learn from him about this important doctrine:

Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin. But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God... (Romans 3:20-23).

Have you discovered this truth for yourself––that you are a sinner in need of salvation? There are so many people who are self-righteous. They trust in themselves. They fail to understand that they cannot trust in their good works to gain entrance into heaven. Not one of their good deeds can save them. They need Christ to be their righteousness: For He [God] made Him [Jesus] who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him (2 Corinthians 5:21).

The righteousness we have received through Christ is positional. We are made righteous in Him. When we repent of our sins and accept Jesus by faith, we are made righteous. Everything comes into perspective when you understand fully that Christ is our righteousness.

The greatest enemy to human souls is the self-righteous spirit which makes men look to themselves for salvation.
~Charles Spurgeon~

SUNDAY September 22, 2024

All Things Gained Counted Loss for Christ

Philippians 3:7-8

Paul thought he had it all––his heritage, his education, and all he had gained in life––but he counted all these things a loss for Christ! Do you see how beautiful that is? The word loss means “worthless.” All he had gained was counted as rubbish. All his attainments and everything he thought was of great value in his life were now counted worthless because he had gained Christ. The word gain means “to win.” He had won Christ.

Listen, when you talk about your past life, was it really that good? Nothing is to be compared to what is ahead of you in Christ. Look what you have gained in Him––a brand new life! When you were in the world, you were lost––without God and without hope. Never forget that! Yet when you became a Christian, you gained the knowledge of God’s Word and received eternal riches. You have the mind of Christ! Remember, life is short, and the only thing that counts in eternity is what you do for Christ.

Jim Elliot had the right perspective in life. As a missionary, he desired to share the Gospel with the Auca Indians in the jungles of Ecuador. On January 8, 1956, his family lost contact with him. Jim and his friends thought they had an opportunity to successfully communicate with the Indians, so they landed their plane and planned to speak with them.

As Jim and his companions tried to share the Gospel, they were killed. They were all very young, fresh out of college. Two weeks before Jim was speared to death, he said, “He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep, to gain what he cannot lose.” This was right in line with what Paul had said. What about you? Have you counted all things a loss for the sake of Christ?

Hold everything earthly with a loose hand, but grasp eternal things with a death-like grip.
~C. H Spurgeon~

SATURDAY September 21, 2024

No Confidence in the Flesh

Philippians 3:4-6

The Philippian church was being infiltrated by Judaizers––false teachers. They were trying to seduce them into legalism. They falsified everything that Paul had taught them––salvation through faith in Christ. They taught that if a person was not circumcised, they were not saved. They insisted that the only way to receive salvation was by keeping the Law of Circumcision, but this would bring them back into bondage and condemnation.

Legalism is such a danger to the Church. It can destroy people’s faith in Christ. Think about it. It would be the same as telling someone that unless they were baptized, they were not saved––wrong! If this was the case, and salvation was gained through our works, we would have bragging sessions. There is nothing for us to brag about––it is all of God and none of us. Salvation is received by faith in Jesus Christ––period.

In reasoning with the Philippians on this point, Paul began to recall his standing as a Jew before he came to Christ. If anyone could boast, it was him! He was a Hebrew, from the tribe of the Benjamin, circumcised on the eighth day. He was an elite member of the Jewish community––a Pharisee. He was taught under Gamaliel, a leading Pharisee well-versed in Jewish Law. Paul kept the Law; He persecuted the Church, and he had every reason to place his confidence in his flesh––in all these accolades.

However, as a Christian, Paul rejoiced in the fact that he no longer had any confidence in his Jewish heritage or his zealous, self-righteous life. He knew he could no longer trust in any of these things to establish his own righteousness before God. Jesus became his righteousness! You have to trust in Jesus Christ for your salvation, not in your good works.

Faith wraps itself in the righteousness of Christ.
~Thomas Brooks~

FRIDAY September 20, 2024

Rejoice in Jesus Christ

Philippians 3:2-3

Paul gave a stern warning. What was he warning the Philippians about? They had to pay attention, as three times he told them to beware. He warned them against Judaizers who were trying to seduce Gentiles into following the Law––especially the Law of Circumcision. You see, in order to be a legitimate Jew, a male child was circumcised on the eighth day. If a person wanted to become a Jew––a proselyte––as an adult, they had to become circumcised.

Paul instructed that you did not have to go through the Law of Circumcision, become a true Jew. It was by having a new heart––circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit... (Romans 2:29). This happens through being born again of the Holy Spirit, as we come to Christ by faith. Although Paul was addressing Jews in Romans 2:28-29 NLT, what he states gives clear understanding to the issue at hand:

For you are not a true Jew just because you were born of Jewish parents or because you have gone through the ceremony of circumcision. No, a true Jew is one whose heart is right with God. And true circumcision is not merely obeying the letter of the law; rather, it is a change of heart produced by the Spirit. And a person with a changed heart seeks praise from God, not from people (Romans 2:28-29 NLT).

When anyone comes to Christ and has become born again of the Spirit of God, they become a spiritual Jew. This is why we can rejoice in Jesus Christ.

Concerning the Gentiles, God says in the prophecy of Hosea, “Those who were not my people, I will now call my people. And I will love those whom I did not love before.”
~Romans 9:25 NLT~

THURSDAY September 19, 2024

Rejoice in the Lord

Philippians 3:1

Even though he was under house arrest, Paul had the joy of the Lord every day, no matter his circumstances. He continued to do the work of the ministry and used his time to dictate his epistle to the Philippians. At this point, he reached a transition in his letter to them; after some additional thoughts, soon his letter would be complete.

Paul had joy; He had his eyes on the Lord. He knew the Philippians were being robbed of their joy! They were too busy disputing among themselves. Others in the church were murmuring and complaining. He wanted the brethren to have a contagious joy––to rejoice in the Lord.

What has caused you to lose your joy in life? When you embrace sin in your life, joy will be lost. King David embraced a woman and committed adultery with her. What did he lose? His joy! In repentance, his desire was to have his joy restored: Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you (Psalm 51:12 NLT). What sin have you embraced that has robbed you of your joy? If you humbly repent of your sin, the Lord will restore your joy.

Are you a person who is always murmuring and complaining because your life has become overwhelming? Do not become disappointed, bitter or angry, and do not begin to embrace Satan’s lies. He will cause you to question the goodness of God. I have heard people complain, saying, “If God is love, why is He allowing this situation to happen in my life?” Instead of rejoicing in the Lord for all the good things He has done for them, they allow depression to creep into their lives. Where is their joy?

Rejoice in the Lord for all the great things He has done for you. An old hymn, To God be the Glory, has a similar phrase. Consider this one verse: “Great things He hath taught us, great things He hath done, and great our rejoicing through Jesus the Son; but purer, and higher, and greater will be our wonder, our transport when Jesus we see.”

A rejoicing heart soon makes a praising tongue.
~Charles Spurgeon~

WEDNESDAY September 18, 2024

Esteem Fellow Christians

Philippians 2:29-30

Again, Epaphroditus almost died when he went to minister to Paul, a beloved Apostle. By the mercy of God, he recovered. Now returning back to Philippi, he had firsthand news from Paul to report to the believers. They would learn of his well-being and his work.

Paul urged the Philippians to receive both Timothy and Epaphroditus with gladness––to hold them in esteem. What reason was given? They were to be treated with honor for the sake of their work for Christ. In the case of his friend Epaphroditus, serving in ministry almost cost him his life! Yet he did not think of himself. He had the same mindset as Paul, who said:

...nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God (Acts 20:24).

We need men like Epaphroditus in the Church today––men who are willing to care for us even to the point of risking their lives. A friend like this is always ready to serve others. They will ask, “How are you doing today? How can I assist you? Is there a need I can help with? How can I pray for you?”

We should always be ready to show hospitality to men like Epaphroditus. Consider opening your home to missionaries, pastors or elders who need a place to stay. Treat them with honor and respect because of their labor in the work of the ministry.

This is especially true of those who labor in God’s Word. It is written: Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine (1 Timothy 5:17). Be very thankful for those who have dedicated their lives to teach and preach the Gospel of Christ.

May God enable me to have a single eye and a simple heart, desiring to please God, to do good to my fellow creatures, and testify my gratitude to my adorable Redeemer.
~William Wilberforce~

TUESDAY September 17, 2024

Sorrow Upon Sorrow

Philippians 2:27-28

Epaphroditus was a man, beloved among the believers in Philippi. Paul rejoiced that he was sent by the church in Philippi to be with him. He appreciated such a good friend. When Epaphroditus fell sick, Paul, I am sure, prayed for him. His sickness was almost unto death! If he had died, it would have caused Paul sorrow upon sorrow; but God, in His sovereignty, had mercy on Epaphroditus––it was not his time to die.

Paul sent Epaphroditus back to the Philippians after his near-death experience. He had completed his mission, despite his ill health. Imagine, when he arrived, they must have all rejoiced to see him restored––well. They must have also rejoiced with Paul, knowing that his sorrow, too, was eased.

This occasion teaches us something very important. Death comes to a person in God’s time. If we fall ill, and it is not our time to die, then God will restore our health and heal us. He is in complete control. It is not up to us. Know this: No one is guaranteed a long life; some children may die when they are young. We may not always understand why God heals some people and not others, but we need to trust that He knows what is best.

Believers who have died and gone before us are in heaven––eternity. I thank God that they have been permanently healed. They have a new body without any pain or suffering. We do not have to have sorrow upon sorrow, because we have an eternal hope.

God can use a sensitive Christian to be a rich blessing in the life of one who knows pain and sorrow.
~Billy Graham~

MONDAY September 16, 2024

A Fellow Brother in Arms

Philippians 2:25-26

Remember, Paul had heard that the Philippians were murmuring, complaining, and causing division among themselves. He decided that the best thing to do was to send two faithful, fellow brethren to them––young Timothy and Epaphroditus. They were men whose characters were proven and tried.

Notice the many references Paul used to describe his dear friend Epaphroditus––brother, fellow worker, fellow soldier, and messenger. There was a comradeship between them––he was a fellow brother-in- arms. They worked together for the Gospel’s sake. Epaphroditus’ mission was two-fold––to bring Paul a monetary gift for his needs, and to stay with him and minister to him personally. In the church of Philippi, Epaphroditus was much loved. News reached them that he had become sick and had almost died, which caused them to be distressed.

We need people like Epaphroditus in the church. Think about your fellow brothers and sisters in Christ for a moment. In their times of great need, they could do with some encouragement. What about Christians who have become elderly and have been placed in a convalescent home for their care? Older people can feel abandoned––alone. They become isolated. Without visitors, they feel forgotten.

Can you become their Epaphroditus? Do you have a heart to minister to the elderly in their final days? Take time to show them friendship, read the Scriptures to them, and pray for them. They will see that you really do care for and love them.

Do all the good you can; to all the people you can; in all the ways you can; and as long as ever you can.
~D.L. Moody~

SUNDAY September 15, 2024

Seek the Things of Christ

Philippians 2:21-24

Paul gave a sad indictment. There are ministers who want to be seen on a platform. They are seeking their own––wanting to become popular among men and enrich themselves with the money people give to the ministry. Something is wrong––these men are not like-minded. However, when you see a leader seeking the welfare of the people, you have found a man who is following the principles of Christ, has God with them––beautiful.

Among preachers in the pulpits all across America, how many of them have their own agenda? In the congregation, are people really seeking the things of God? Honestly, among the multitudes, there are very few. People generally live their lives seeking their own welfare. They are not other-minded. I challenge them, “Where is your service to God and to others?”

Timothy, on the other hand, had a proven character. As he was tutored by Paul and regarded as a son in the faith, he had the same concern for the Church. Although Paul desired to be with the believers in Philippi, his future remained uncertain, so he decided to send Timothy. This gifted, young man submitted to Paul’s leadership.

In ministry, there are young men who are just like Timothy. I see myself in them when I was younger in the ministry. I instruct them as a father. I see their potential. I will often rebuke and exhort younger men, not to be mean, but to prepare them for what is ahead. They will face rejection and hardships in the ministry. At times, I have to address a revealed weak area in their lives to help straighten them out. I do this in love, because I care what happens to them. That is how Paul discipled Timothy. He made sure Timothy was steadfast––always seeking the things of Christ.

Do you make it your primary business, your first great concern, to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness?
~George Muller~

SATURDAY September 14, 2024

Like-minded Co-workers

Philippians 2:19-20

Timothy and Epaphroditus were ministers of the Gospel and great friends of Paul. The Apostle shared with the Philippians that he had no one more like-minded than Timothy. Paul personally trained him. He took him on missionary journeys, giving him an opportunity for on-the-job training. He was a young disciple who was on the same page as Paul. Timothy had caught Paul’s vision and passion for preaching and teaching the Gospel.

Paul trusted Timothy. He knew he would be steadfast in his call––he would not run away from his duties. Although young, Paul knew Timothy’s heart. What he said he would do would be accomplished. As he was trained by Paul, Timothy had grown to be a great minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. His name Timothy means “honoring God.” As Timothy honored God in his life, God honored him.

Paul will soon introduce to us Epaphroditus. The name Epaphroditus means “lovely” or “devoted to.” He was indeed a devoted man, dedicated to ministering to Paul and helping in the work of the Gospel. The church in Philippi sent him to bring an offering to the Apostle while he remained under house arrest. At some point, Epaphroditus became deathly sick, but thankfully he recovered.

It is good to have like-minded men in the ministry, because they are on the same page with you. I like to disciple young men so they can catch the vision and become useful in God’s Kingdom. It is exciting to see them develop, to have the same heart and mind. As we work together in the ministry, we can accomplish so much. I can rest, knowing that if the Lord took me home to be with Him, those men trained in ministry are equipped to carry on––the baton has been passed to them.

I always pray that God will raise up men like Timothy and Epaphroditus in the ministry, men who are like-minded and who have a vision for reaching the youth––our communities––and the world.

Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.
~1 Peter 3:8 NIV~

FRIDAY September 13, 2024

Rejoice With Me

Philippians 2:16-18

Paul wanted the Philippians to hold fast to the Word of God. He had labored among them sacrificially, teaching them from the Scriptures about Christ. Paul was a very tired person. The word labored means “to labor to the point of exhaustion.” He poured his life into them.

Paul spoke like an athlete running a race for a prize, because he knew his labor among the believers was not an empty ambition. He knew in the day of Christ, when he finished his race and entered heaven, he would be rejoicing. Why? His labor was not in vain. He had invested in their lives, and the Lord would reward him in eternity. In the book of 1 Corinthians, Paul gave a similar analogy:

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown (1 Corinthians 9:24-25).

Sometimes, we tend to forget what will happen after we die. God is the one who keeps the records of our lives. At the Bema Seat of Christ, we shall all have to stand before Him to be judged. Paul tells us what our attitude should be in the light of our coming judgment:

Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.

This is why Paul rejoiced with the Philippians. He knew that his labor was not in vain! May we rejoice together in the work of the Gospel!

Go through the day rejoicing for you are no desolate wanderer, but a beloved child, watched over, cared for, supplied, and defended by your Lord.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

THURSDAY September 12, 2024

Stop Complaining

Philippians 2:14-15

Paul exhorted the Philippians in another area that they were miserably failing in––complaining and disputing. In the days of Moses in the wilderness, among God’s people there were many complainers. He had miraculously delivered His people! In the mixed multitude, God judged those who complained. They never made it to the Promised Land. Instead, they perished in the wilderness:

Now when the people complained, it displeased the LORD; for the LORD heard it, and His anger was aroused. So the fire of the LORD burned among them, and consumed some in the outskirts of the camp. Then the people cried out to Moses, and when Moses prayed to the LORD, the fire was quenched. So he called the name of the place Taberah, because the fire of the LORD had burned among them (Numbers 11:1-3).

Complaining is a sin before the Lord. Whatever you are facing in life, do not complain and go around with a frown on your face. Other people can hear when you murmur and complain with your lips. It is not a good witness to them; it will make them stumble. They can see that your attitude stinks. When you serve the Lord, in the church, at home, or on the job, have the right attitude––do not complain. Do your service as unto the Lord––to please God. He is the One who will reward you.

Think about it. God is always watching to see if He can trust you with a smaller duty before promoting you to do something bigger for Him. Serve the Lord with joy in your heart. That will be a great witness among the congregation. In the world, shine as lights for those in the darkness who do not know Christ.

If we complain less, and praise God more, we should be happier.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

WEDNESDAY September 11, 2024

Patriot Day

Psalm 34:18

Many hearts were broken and crushed on September 11, 2001. We must never forget what happened––it is a day that lives on in infamy. Today marks the 23rd anniversary of the September 11th attacks, when people watched in utter horror as two of four hijacked planes were flown into the Twin Towers at the World Trade Centre in New York City.

Another two hijacked planes flew toward their targets. One intentionally crashed into the Pentagon, killing 184 people, while the other, it is believed, was rapidly heading in the direction of the White House. Brave passengers and crew sought to regain control of the plane, which eventually crashed into a field in Pennsylvania. These suicide terror attacks were attributed to al-Qaeda Islamic extremists.

In one tragic day, nearly 3,000 Americans were killed. Innocent men, women and children died because of a hate-based ideology. By a joint resolution approved on December 18, 2021, Congress designated September 11 of each year as “Patriot Day” and requested the observance be annually recognized as “National Day of Service and Remembrance.”

Located on the very site of the former World Trade Centre complex is the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. It honors the many lives of those who were lost. The Pentagon Memorial was also created to honor those who died. These places have become a reminder to future generations not to forget their faith in God, and to always fight to uphold the values that citizens of a free world share.

As Christians, it is our duty to continue to pray for the families who have continued to endure such great grief. We also need to pray for God’s protection over our land. We are living in the Last Days, and times are tough. There are people who are just plain evil. Lawlessness and violence cover our land. With open borders, something like this could happen again. As Christians, we need to get on our knees and pray.

Please join me in praying for America, that we will turn our hearts back toward God.
~Billy Graham~

TUESDAY September 10, 2024

Obedience

Philippians 2:12-13

Paul was having a difficult time, because he would have liked to visit the Philippian church; but in his absence, he continued to exhort them to remain in unity and live in obedience to the Gospel. Paul was not asking the believers in Philippi to reach for the stars. He set before them a divine pattern––to have the mind of Christ.

As Christians, we are to submit our lives to Jesus Christ and rely on the divine power of God to accomplish the task, for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. Notice, it is God who works in us and through us. We can do nothing in our own strength.

Then we come to the next verse that many people take out of context. They think what Paul is saying is that we are saved by works; not so, we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus––period. What they have forgotten to read is the next verse: ...for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. Place these two verses in Philippians together and you see salvation is a work of God, not man. Ephesians 2:8-10 makes clear the case for God’s grace through faith for our salvation:

For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

As we become active in serving in the church, we naturally begin to produce spiritual fruit. Our works come from a desire to serve Him, because we love Him. Understand, our works do not save us––it does not work that way. We have accepted the Gospel of grace, by faith.

Revival is a renewed conviction of sin and repentance, followed by an intense desire to live in obedience to God. It is giving up one's will to God in deep humility.
~Charles Finney~

MONDAY September 9, 2024

The Exaltation of Christ

Philippians 2:9-11

Therefore refers to everything we have just studied about Christ––His Incarnation and humble obedience to sacrifice Himself on the Cross for our sins. Then Paul spoke of the exaltation of Christ. When God the Father saw His Son’s complete obedience to His will, He lifted Him up and gave Him the name which is above every name....

Jesus is an incredible name! Jesus in Hebrew translates to Joshua; it is a name which means “Yahweh saves” or “Yahweh is salvation.” In Isaiah 9:6-7, there is written a succession of names that are attributed to Jesus. They reveal His divine nature which rests upon His exalted position:

For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity....

This is a prophecy about Jesus, the Son of God, born of a virgin––Mary. It shows to us His humanity and deity. These names also show His divine attributes in the work of God and His power as God Himself.

He is called Wonderful Counselor, which translates: “a marvel of a counselor” or “wonderful counselor” (a Messianic King). Jesus, as our Mighty God, translates to “a might hero.” As the Everlasting Father, this speaks of His benevolence and protection toward us, His children.

The name Prince of Peace is the word “Commander.” We are to be in submission to our Commander and Chief and to take orders from Him. Knowing Him by name, have you bowed your knee to Jesus today?

Let my name die everywhere, let even my friends forget me, if by that means the cause of the blessed Jesus may be promoted.
~George Whitefield~

SUNDAY September 8, 2024

The Death of the Cross

Philippians 2:8

Jesus did not have to take the body of a man, but He wanted to relate to us––to our everyday trials and struggles. He proved His love for us by His actions. He humbled Himself and, being obedient to His Father’s will, died on the Cross for the sins of the world. Listen to His struggle as He prayed:

He went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying, “My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine” (Matthew 26:39 NLT).

In His Servanthood to Mankind, the cost was high––it cost Him His life. Like Christ, can you be a servant? You may not have to give your life for someone, but what about doing something simple? Can you be a servant and empty everyone’s trash at work? People might ask you, “Why are you doing this?” You can simply respond, “I just desire to serve you.” Continue to place others first––serve them––it can help them come to know Christ.

In serving others, we are learning to be like Jesus. Seriously, if you do not love people, how can you serve them? You cannot because you do not have the right heart. Have the heart of Jesus, His love and compassion, so that even when you go through the valley and suffer, as you continue to serve people, they will see Christ in you because of your faithful witness.

When God sees your obedience to His Word, He will be the One to lift you up. The Bible encourages us: ...humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor (1 Peter 5:6-7 NLT). Another Scripture shows the sovereignty of God in exalting or humbling a person: For exaltation comes neither from the east nor from the west nor from the south. But God is the Judge: He puts down one, and exalts another (Psalm 75:6-7). If God exalts you, keep in mind it is to serve and minister to others.

Obedience to God's will is the secret of spiritual knowledge and insight. It is not willingness to know, but willingness to DO (obey) God's will that brings certainty.
~Eric Liddell~

SATURDAY September 7, 2024

The Deity of Jesus Christ

Philippians 2:5-7 NLT

This passage is about the deity of Jesus Christ. He did not lose His deity when He humbled Himself to take human form. He literally “emptied self.” Again, He never lost His deity. Jesus is God. He came from eternity––from heavenly places to a lowly place––earth. Our Lord came in humility, to serve us and to die for us.

Jesus took upon Himself the form of a bondservant. In Mark 10:45, He expressed His Servanthood to Mankind: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” The Jews rejected Him as their Messiah. He knew this would happen, and that one day He would be betrayed and handed over to sinners. He was fully aware that they would spit on Him, whip Him, crucify Him––kill Him.

The Son of God knew He would feel agonizing pain, yet He willingly humbled Himself to die on the Cross for our sin. Jesus Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords, humbled Himself, and then God exalted Him:

Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:9-11).

Consider the depth of Paul’s exhortation to us. As Christians, we are to have the same mind and attitude of Christ.

Without question, this is the great mystery of our faith: Christ was revealed in a human body and vindicated by the Spirit. He was seen by angels and announced to the nations. He was believed in throughout the world and taken to heaven in glory.
~1 Timothy 3:16 NLT~

FRIDAY September 6, 2024

Having the Mind of Christ

Philippians 2:5-7

This is one of the greatest and most moving passages in the Bible. It is all about Jesus Christ. His mind should be our mental attitude when serving other people. Who are we to be like? Christ. This is key to our mindset.

Many scholars have noted that our Lord had a submissive mind, a serving mind, a selfless mind, and a sacrificial mind. In Hebrews 10:9-10, we see that Jesus submitted Himself to the will of His Father:

...then He [Jesus] said, “Behold, I have come to do Your will, O God.” He takes away the first that He may establish the second. By that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

Jesus had a serving mind: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).

He gave His life on the Cross to pay the price for our salvation. In doing so, He had a selfless mind. Jesus was prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice. In Hebrews 9:26-28, we see the sacrificial mind of Christ: ...but now ... He [Jesus] has appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment, so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many....

As a Christian, you are called to have the same mind of Christ. What same traits are you to have in the actions described in Romans 12:1-2 NIV?

...offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is....

We need, men so possessed by the Spirit of God that God can think His thoughts through [their] minds....
~Alan Redpath~

THURSDAY September 5, 2024

How to Esteem Others

Philippians 2:3-4

Paul continued to appeal to the believers in Philippi. He encouraged them to esteem others and not tear them down with their words. The imminent threat to their spiritual growth was disunity from within the church.

As believers in Christ, they had a duty to encourage, love, and act with compassion toward their brothers and sisters in the church. For unity’s sake, they must get along with each other. Paul helped them to recognize that if two of them were arguing, there was pride in their hearts. This could be easily solved. In relation to one another, they needed to humble themselves, forgive, and be peacemakers.

In the church, we are to watch out for others. Listen, place Jesus first, then others, and yourself last. Esteem others better than yourself. This brings unity; it is the result of humility. If Christians submit themselves to the Holy Spirit, and He rules and governs their lives, then there will be unity.

A person with selfish ambition desires to advance themselves. They are self-seeking and conceited––prideful and arrogant. This is not how we should be. Our example is Christ. In His humility, He looked to the interest of others.

Are you guilty of doing things for your own interests? Do you crave position and power––to be great? It is not like that in the Kingdom of God. Jesus taught His disciples servanthood. He is the King of kings, but He walked among us in humility as He served humanity. In John 13:13-15, Jesus set an example for His disciples to follow:

“You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.”

Do you have the right concept of Christianity?

James and John wanted the glory, but not the cup of shame; the crown, but not the cross; the role of master, but not servant.
~J. Oswald Sanders~

WEDNESDAY September 4, 2024

Fulfill My Joy

Philippians 2:1-2

Paul had another reason to write to the Philippians. In his absence, they were beginning to become divided against each other. To correct the situation, he issued a direct command––fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. They needed to be unified.

The Philippians had filled Paul’s life with joy. He was very excited about their salvation, their devotion to the Lord, and even their financial giving. They were growing in Christ, but his excitement diminished once he heard about a growing disunity among them.

Disunity causes heartache. When people are divided and not united, the body of Christ suffers. Listen, we can have our differences of opinion, but God never wants us to be divided against one another––there must be unity, not disunity.

In the book of 1 Corinthians, Paul also dealt with the subject of division. If you are causing division in the body of Christ, heed his exhortation:

I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought (1 Corinthians 1:10 NIV).

What kind of mind are we supposed to have? We are to have the mind of Christ––a mind of love and unity––not disunity. Many times, people cause division because they are not filled with God’s Spirit. They act according to their flesh––wanting to get their own way. They want to win. Disgruntled, they sow discord by putting other people down.

It is not a matter of who is right or wrong. There needs to be a purposeful working together in unity. Submit to God and be humble. Do you want God’s blessing in your life? Then do not divide the body of Christ.

Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!
~Psalm 133:1~

TUESDAY September 3, 2024

Joy in Like-mindedness

Philippians 2:1-2

Paul used the word therefore, which took the believers back to what he had previously said in Philippians 1. They were to walk worthy of the Gospel––in unity. Paul had joy while under house arrest because he took comfort knowing the believers in Philippi were growing in Christ. Sadly, he received news of a division in the church. They were supposed to be united––standing fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel (Philippians 1:27).

Paul again exhorted them to be like-minded. He would begin to point them to Christ’s example of humility and sacrifice. Jesus became a Man. He was falsely accused and mistreated––He took 39 stripes! When a Roman soldier whipped a prisoner, each time they confessed their sin, but the Son of Man had no sin. Jesus knew He would be arrested and crucified, but He had joy. The Scriptures reveal the reason He was so full of joy:

...who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God... (Hebrews 12:2).

Do you have joy in suffering? Trials can so easily rob you of your joy. As joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), it comes from within, whereas happiness depends on your outward circumstances. God desires that you have joy in your life:

John 15:11 NLT: I [Jesus] have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!

Romans 15:13: I [Paul] pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him...

There may be difficult people in your life, and they become a thorn in your side. They can really get to you, but do not let them rob you of your joy.

For the Christian, there can be joy in the midst of suffering, joy that transcends the pain of the moment.
~R.C. Sproul~

MONDAY September 2, 2024

Labor Day

Genesis 3:17 NASB

Since the beginning of time in the Garden of Eden, the Bible reveals the consequences of what is commonly known as the Fall of Mankind. The seduction of the serpent caused our parents, Adam and Eve, to sin. The ground became cursed, and since then, work has become a terrible toil. Men sweat and endure hard labor to make a living to provide for their homes and families.

Labor Day is a federal holiday that is observed on the first Monday in September. It is a time of tribute to the many achievements of American workers and is often celebrated with city parades. Families generally get together and have barbeques and relax.

The first Labor Day in history was celebrated on Tuesday, September 5, 1882, in New York City, in agreement with the proposals of the Central Labor Union. Later, other states followed suit. Finally, President Grover Cleveland signed a law making the first Monday in September of each year a national holiday.

Labor Day has been considered to be the unofficial end of summer. Nowadays, schools have already started, and the calendar is in full swing with school activities. Most people have already taken their summer vacations and have gone back to their work routine. The weather in the mornings and evenings will grow cooler, and people’s thoughts lean toward other holidays, such as Thanksgiving and even Christmas!

The yearly calendar moves very fast, so take time to enjoy this year’s Labor Day. Relax and put your feet up. Take time to rest from all your hard labor and be blessed by all God has given you––your family and home.

Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil—this is a gift of God.
~Ecclesiastes 5:19 NIV~

SUNDAY September 1, 2024

Suffering for Christ’s Sake

Philippians 1:28-30

Paul was a man unafraid of his enemies. He was full of courage because he feared God, not man. Therefore, he could boldly tell his friends in the faith not to be afraid of their adversaries. Paul knew the beginning from the end. Christians were assured of a future––eternal life. There was no eternal hope for the non-believer. They had no future; they were going to perish in their sin.

Paul wanted to reassure the brethren that he identified with them. He was just like them––subject to suffer for Christ. He shared in their same conflict. He used his circumstances to bring comfort to the believers in Philippi. Paul was unmoved––steadfast in his faith. His attitude was remarkable; he remained rejoicing in the Lord, knowing his circumstances were only temporal. One day, in the future, eternal life will be assured. He became such an example of endurance and perseverance in the Christian faith.

As you continue to abide and stand fast in your faith, be aware that trials and tribulation will come. You may not care for this, but consider the reality of what Paul continued to say, For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him.... “Wait a minute,” you may say, “I have to suffer for Christ?” At times, yes.

Look at Paul’s life. It was not a bed of roses; he suffered tremendously. Be steadfast, not only in good times, but when you face adversity. God has His purpose for allowing any suffering in your life. It is during these difficult times that you will draw closer to God. You are never alone in your suffering––God is with you. Remember, suffering is only for a little while; one day, you, too, are going to be in God’s presence.

I am certain that I never did grow in grace one-half so much anywhere as I have upon the bed of pain.
~Charles Spurgeon~