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~

SATURDAY August 31, 2024

Is Your Conduct Worthy of the Gospel?

Philippians 1:27

Paul gave a strong exhortation to his beloved brethren in the faith. He urged them to have a conduct worthy of the Gospel. His words would have caused the believers in Philippi to examine their lives. Was their conduct worthy of the Gospel of Christ?

As an Apostle and leader of the Christian faith, Paul also called the Philippians to stand fast in one spirit.... Whether Paul was present with them or absent, it did not matter; but what did concern him was that they were in unity, with one mind, working together for the sake of the Gospel. His charge was to be taken seriously. The word striving means “to strive at the same time with another.” Again, Paul desired a steadfastness in striving for church unity.

Paul also wanted to hear that they were living in holiness and purity. The Holy Spirit was to govern their lives, not any carnal, fleshly desire, as this would cause disunity in the church.

Paul’s words need to resonate within our own hearts. Take his charge with all seriousness. Stop to pray and examine your own life in light of his exhortation. Honestly, before the Lord, is your conduct worthy of the Gospel? Only you can answer that question.

Do you see behaviors that are not fitting in your Christian walk? What has God revealed to you personally? In what areas do you need to make a change? Ask the Lord to help you get rid of anything that is hindering your progress in Christ. God desires that you walk in holiness, in unity, as you strive together with other believers for the faith of the Gospel.

It is impossible to conduct your life as a disciple without definite times of secret prayer.
~Oswald Chambers~

FRIDAY August 30, 2024

Christian Progress

Philippians 1:25-26

Paul continued his work in the ministry. Being under house arrest did not stop him from serving the Lord. Perhaps he anticipated that he would be around for a longer time, as he was given so much liberty in his current circumstances. It was not his time to depart from the world and go be with the Lord.

The Philippian church was a newly established ministry with many new believers in Christ. Paul wanted to make sure they were progressing in their spiritual growth––in their progress and joy of faith. Paul had a teaching ministry, and his time was used wisely to write letters of encouragement. He established healthy, biblical doctrine and gave them many other exhortations. He had much to do.

We can see Paul’s heart toward the Philippians. He wanted to see them again, if the Lord permitted. Although this was his desire, he did not know if this journey would ever happen. It was all in the Lord’s hands. Paul remained in harmony with the Lord’s will.

If you are a new believer, it is important that you continue to grow in Christ. It is essential to read God’s Word, pray, fellowship with other believers, and share your faith. We must guard against becoming stagnant in our Christian walk. We are to progress no matter how long we have known the Lord. The life of a Christian has to be in harmony with God’s will. Are you continuing to progress in your spiritual growth?

...grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
~2 Peter 3:18~

THURSDAY August 29, 2024

A Hard-pressed Desire

Philippians 1:23-24

Paul struggled with mixed emotions. He was hard-pressed. Why? He desired to be with the Lord, but he knew God’s will was for him to remain. There was still a purpose for his life. Believers in Christ still needed to be ministered to.

Paul told the Philippians, “I am remaining here for you!” Again, he would love to be in the presence of the Lord, but it was not yet his time to go to heaven. God had him right where He wanted him. Paul knew in his heart that one day in the future, he would go be with the Lord. It was all according to God’s plan and purpose for his life.

This is the same for all of us. One day, when our work for God is finished, we shall go be with the Lord in heaven; but for now, we need to take full advantage of the days, hours, minutes and seconds that He has given us. God still has a purpose for our lives. Consider the reason why God is keeping us here. It could be for more time given to us to minister to our children, grandchildren, or whoever else is around us. Believe me, when God is finished with you, then He will take you home––you will be gone!

Right now, God still has a purpose for your life. One of the main purposes is to be a witness to everyone you know. Share your faith with people so they can come to know the Lord. Let them see your sincere love for Christ and your love for them. May they observe your Christian witness––your worthy conduct and your integrity.

If I find in myself desires which nothing in this world can satisfy, the only logical explanation is that I was made for another world.
~C.S. Lewis~

WEDNESDAY August 28, 2024

To Live Is Christ, to Die Is Gain

Philippians 1:21-22

Paul believed that the moment he died, he would be in the presence of God. He knew his body was just a tent that housed his spirit. In heaven, he would receive a new body:

For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed with our habitation which is from heaven (2 Corinthians 5:1-2).

There are many Christians who do not like the subject of death. They will say, “Please do not talk about that; I am afraid of death.” If I could take you into the presence of God for five seconds, you would never want to come back here! I can hardly wait! Heaven is going to be incredible.

Paul was willing to live or die for Christ. That was his priority. Nothing in this world is to take priority over Jesus Christ––not your wife, your children, your money, your sports car, or your credit cards. If you can say like Paul, “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain,” then you have your priorities right––you really love our Lord Jesus Christ. Continue to live this truth.

However, if a person lives in the flesh––according to their carnal desires––they will die in their sin. Those who do not trust Christ for salvation have no spiritual fruit. All they labor for is temporal––everything they have worked for in life will burn. They have no spiritual dividends in heaven.

In this life, Christians are to serve Christ. In doing so, they are sowing eternally––having eternal fruit for their labor. They are making investments in the bank in heaven that cannot be taken away from them.

When we come to Christ, we’re no longer the most important person in the world to us; Christ is. Instead of living only for ourselves, we have a higher goal: to live for Jesus.
~Billy Graham~

TUESDAY August 27, 2024

Christ Be Magnified

Philippians 1:19-20

Paul was assured of his deliverance. To be clear, the word deliverance is a reference to the Greek translation for salvation. It can also be translated as “well-being” or “escape.” Therefore, we can conclude that what Paul said can refer to his salvation; his freedom from his current situation under house arrest, or his deliverance from Roman execution. Although we cannot be completely sure of what Paul intended when he wrote these verses to the Philippians, he seemed to know, one way or the other, that freedom would ultimately be his.

In his current circumstances, Paul had a firm confidence placed in an eternal hope. He described it as an earnest expectation and hope. In the Greek language, we are given a picture of “a watching with outstretched hands with the attention concentrated on one object and turned away from all other objects.” His focus was solely on his hope in Jesus Christ––nothing else––not his circumstances.

Whether Paul lived or died, he knew Christ would be magnified. This was his consuming passion––to magnify Christ by any means. Is this your consuming passion? In this life, have you fixed your eyes upon your eternal hope? The object of your Christianity is to have your life revolve around Him, whether you live or die. Christ needs to be everything to you.

Let all those who seek You rejoice and be glad in You; let such as love Your salvation say continually, the LORD be magnified!
~Psalm 40:16~

MONDAY August 26, 2024

Rejoice, Yes, Rejoice!

Philippians 1:15-18

Paul knew of men who preached the Gospel for their own purposes. He preached God’s Word out of love with a pure heart. He had a call to preach the Gospel. Paul genuinely cared for where people were going to spend eternity. Yet he rejoiced knowing that whoever preached God’s Word, even with false motives, the Word had power to transform lives.

If Christ was preached by pretense, His Word would not come back void. It would take root in people’s lives. Paul knew what the prophet Isaiah wrote about the power of God’s Word:

So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it (Isaiah 55:11).

Paul had a perfect mindset about his preaching. As he was appointed by God to preach, he took the responsibility seriously:

For if I preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast of, for necessity is laid upon me; yes, woe is me if I do not preach the gospel! For if I do this willingly, I have a reward; but if against my will, I have been entrusted with a stewardship. What is my reward then? That when I preach the gospel, I may present the gospel of Christ without charge, that I may not abuse my authority in the gospel (1 Corinthians 9:16-18).

Today, we have the same issue. There are preachers who have false motivations in preaching the Gospel. I have seen, and maybe you have too, TV evangelists who preach for money and fame. Like Paul, I preach God’s Word because of the love of Christ––it burns inside of me. It brings me joy to see people respond to the message of Jesus Christ.

...Whenever a day comes when I see men and women coming down the aisles without joy in my heart, I’ll quit preaching.
~Billy Sunday~

SUNDAY August 25, 2024

Speak God’s Word With Boldness

Philippians 1:13-14

Paul knew his imprisonment was all for the glory of God. The Gospel still was getting out. God’s Word was not bound. Under house arrest, Paul remained a great witness for Jesus Christ. The Lord had divinely appointed him to preach the message of salvation. The guards knew the Apostle was a proclaimer of the Gospel. Imagine, Caesar’s bodyguards–– his elite, Praetorian guards––were being led, one by one, to know Jesus Christ.

Paul’s chains influenced the lives of most believers. Seeing Paul’s bold confidence and courage as a prisoner of Rome, in turn, made them extremely bold as they shared their testimonies. Christians everywhere were becoming bolder in their witnessing and fearless in the face of adversity. They were not afraid of anything.

Do people around you know you as a proclaimer of the Gospel? Are you a bold witness? Have you shared the truth with them about Jesus Christ? I have found that as people grow older in the Lord, they can become more conservative––lackadaisical. They stop sharing their faith with others, whereas with a new believer, you can hardly keep them quiet. They are so zealous and look for every opportunity to share their faith.

As Christians, we cannot reach a place where we stop sharing the Gospel. We have to practice our faith. We are called by God to witness to others. The Gospel message cannot be just head knowledge. Neither are we to keep the treasure of the Gospel hidden. It has been said, “We cannot be so heavenly minded that we are no earthly good.” Be aware of God’s purpose and will in your circumstances and surroundings. Look for opportunities to share the Gospel in the gym, coffee houses, and the workplace.

What is your story? Be ready to share it when the Lord gives you the opportunity.
~Billy Graham~

SATURDAY August 24, 2024

A Christian’s Joy

Philippians 1:12

In God’s wisdom and sovereignty, He deliberately designed that His servant Paul would go through his present circumstances. Even though the situation was undesirable, He knew Paul’s life would bring Him glory and honor. In the face of adversity, Paul had an unshakable faith because he knew this to be true––his life was to be used to glorify God.

While under house arrest, Paul did not feel sorry for himself––he made the best of it. He did not want others to feel sorry for him either. He had an unbreakable joy! This was the theme in writing to the Philippians––joy. His letter was an encouragement for all those who might find themselves in a similar situation. If arrested, God’s joy would be their strength.

Some Christians look at their situations and they begin to feel sorry for themselves; but they need to grow spiritually by trusting in the Lord. That is why it is important to read Bible stories and to study how people in the past coped. How were they able to bear their circumstances? In what ways did they fail or succeed? In 1 Corinthians 10:11, we are encouraged to learn from past experiences: Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition.... We can glean so much from these lessons. Apply what you have learned to your life so that you do not make the same mistakes.

Paul knew the Word of God––all the Old Testament stories. He had spent quality time with the Lord and had received a great education from Him. As a scholar of the Scriptures, he knew the beginning from the end. It was not head knowledge, but heart knowledge. Knowing the truth of the Gospel gave him confidence and courage. He had an eternal hope.

What is your prison today? It might not be a literal prison, but your circumstances may make you feel imprisoned in your home, at work, or wherever else you sense you are bound. Know this: God is sovereign.

The truest, purest joy flows from a discovery of Jesus Christ. He is the hidden treasure that gives such joy to the finder....
~Robert Murray McCheyne~

FRIDAY August 23, 2024

The Furtherance of the Gospel

Philippians 1:12-14

In Philippians 1:1-11, we have studied Paul’s thanksgiving and prayer for the church in Philippi. He now speaks of his imprisonment in the beautiful, big city of Rome. Under house arrest, Paul had the understanding that he was a prisoner of Jesus Christ––he was His servant––amazing. Paul wanted to convince his readers to see that, even though imprisoned and under the care of palace guards, nothing in his life was by coincidence. God was using everything for the furtherance of the Gospel.

Paul used every opportunity God gave him. Whenever there was a change in guard, he shared the Gospel with that man. Many Roman guards became born again! You see, Paul was not looking at his circumstances, and even though he knew he would eventually die because of his commitment to Jesus Christ, he cared more about people’s eternity. Do you care where people spend eternity? If you do, then never give up on them. Continue to pray and love them.

In life, nothing happens by coincidence. People struggle with terrible circumstances and tragedies that God has allowed in their lives, but He will use these events to draw them closer to Him. God is at work in these dire situations in people’s lives. Oftentimes, they may not understand the “whys” of life until they get to heaven; but know this one thing: God is at work in our lives until we become glorified with Jesus Christ in heaven.

We all go through trials and temptations that become part of our testimony. When people face what you have already faced, you are equipped to share with them God’s comfort and purposes.

God's plan for enlarging His kingdom is so simple - one person telling another about the Savior. ... Just remember, someone's eternal destiny is at stake. The joy you'll have when you meet that person in heaven will far exceed any discomfort you felt in sharing the gospel.
~Charles Stanley~

THURSDAY August 22, 2024

Fruits of Righteousness

Philippians 1:9-11

There are four specific things Paul prayed for the believers in Philippi. He prayed for an abounding love––the agape love of God––to be evident in their lives. Their love needed to abound––grow more and more. He knew the sinful nature of man––how we can be in the Spirit, loving people one day and not so loving the next. God’s love is a sacrificial and fervent love. Everything we do has to be foundational on the love of God. Among believers, God’s love is the most important spiritual fruit in the church: But the fruit of the Spirit is love... (Galatians 5:22).

Paul wanted the Philippians to understand that, even if they had the spiritual gifts of knowledge and discernment, these would mean nothing if not exercised in love. Love is the greatest spiritual gift. In the book of 1 Corinthians, Paul expounded on this truth: And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing (1 Corinthians 13:2).

How do non-believers know that we are Christians? It is not by our car stickers or our Bibles––it is only through Christ’s love. Jesus said: “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” Love must shine right through us. We also need God’s discernment to know right from wrong, falsehood from truth.

Christians are to be sincere and without offense. The word sincere means “without fault.” Do not be a phony or a hypocrite. We need to have a righteous character that glorifies Christ: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). All these are fruits of righteousness in your life.

The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise.
~Proverbs 11:30~

WEDNESDAY August 21, 2024

Partakers of God’s Grace

Philippians 1:7-8

Look how beautiful! I love this verse and what was expressed from Paul’s heart. His letter showed his shepherd’s heart for the people. He loved and cared for them. He thought about them all the time. He wished he could be with them, but he could not. He was in chains waiting for the opportunity to share the Gospel of grace with Caesar Nero. So for two, whole years, Paul wrote his epistles and shared his thoughts and actions with those who mattered to him most. His priority was to share the grace of God with them all.

God witnessed Paul’s pure heart. He had such a genuine affection for the believers in Philippi. Do you know what the word affection means? It denotes “tender mercies” and is prompted by the same love as Jesus Christ has for the Church.

Paul had such an intense desire to be with the believers in Philippi, especially as he reflected back on his days of fellowship with them. Most importantly, Paul reflected on Jesus as his Savior. This is what kept him moving forward in his call to preach the Gospel.

What should we be doing as Christians? We should have an intense desire to share the grace of God with others. How we need to share His grace, love and mercy with those who need it, no matter our circumstances. As we do, the results will be tremendous. Lost souls will come to know God.

We are living in an age of grace, in which God promises that ‘whosoever will’ may come and receive His Son. But this period of grace will not go on indefinitely. We are even now living on borrowed time.
~Billy Graham~

TUESDAY August 20, 2024

What God Starts, He Will Complete

Philippians 1:6

Paul had great confidence in all the believers’ futures in Philippi. He knew that as God had begun a good work in their lives, He would complete His work in them. Paul had an unwavering confidence because his confidence was in God. Without any doubt, he gave believers an utmost assurance that God would always be with them.

This is a Scripture you can underline in your Bible because this is also a sure promise for you! If God has begun a good work in your life, He is never going to forsake you––never––ever. God will not give up on you as long as you do not give up on Him. Abide in Him, and He will remain with you! John 15:4 simply gives us this truth: “Abide in Me, and I in you.”

God will work in your life until the very day you die and stand in His presence! Again, God will not give up on you. He will complete the work that He has promised He would do. What does that tell you about Him? God is faithful! He will use you to the very end of your life. Continue to seek Him; He will be faithful to finish the work He has started in you.

It is important to understand how God began His work in your life. It began with the work of salvation. It all started when you placed your faith and trust in Jesus Christ. Salvation is the free gift of God, and it is a supernatural work. It is the process by which the child of God goes though regeneration, justification, sanctification, and finally glorification.

If you do not know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, all you have to do is repent of your sin, confess, and accept Him. So simple and so easy. Will you accept the gift of salvation God has offered to you? If you do, He will fill you with His joy as you become a brand-new person.

Sanctification is the outcome and inseparable consequence of regeneration. He who is born again and made a new creature receives a new nature and a new principle and always lives a new life.
~J. C. Ryle~

MONDAY August 19, 2024

Joy in Fellowship

Philippians 1:3-5

In Paul’s prayer, we see his joy in the Lord. Joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit: ...the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). He is Spirit controlled. Paul prayed in the Spirit with a true focus on all those he was interceding for. I have to ask you, is joy evident in your prayer life?

It is essential to find a quiet place to pray, just to be alone with you and the Lord. In times of prayer, I like to lock myself up in my office or take a nice, long walk to spend time with God. Find your own special place to go be alone with God and pray.

In Philippians 1:5, it is believed there were circumstances that Paul and other believers in Philippi were facing together for the sake of the Gospel: ...for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now.... It may also have been that this verse was in reference to those in the church who were financially helping Paul. He never asked for any money, but he prayed, and God touched the hearts of people in Philippi, and they sent help for his needs. Did you know that through sharing financially with the poor, you join in fellowship with those in need?

In our trials and suffering, there is a oneness in fellowship with Christ and His Holy Spirit, as Paul stated in Philippians 3:10-11:

...that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, if, by any means, I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.

The joy of fellowship is experienced with one another at church. It is so important, and we need it––it brings spiritual growth and joy.

There is a brotherhood within the body of believers, and the Lord Jesus Christ is the common denominator. Friendship and fellowship are the legal tender among believers.
~J. Vernon McGee~

SUNDAY August 18, 2024

Thankfulness

Philippians 1:3-5

The Apostle Paul was so thankful to God for all the different people who worked with him. His prayer for them was personal and constant. He addressed his prayer to God––I thank my God. His prayer life was rich because it was from his memory––all the many missionary journeys and the different souls he met along the way. He never forgot these precious people. Those he met in Philippi were etched on his mind and heart, and it brought him so much joy as he thought about them and prayed for them.

Notice the subject of thankfulness. We are to be a thankful people. There is so much to be thankful for. I thank God for all the leaders who assist me in the ministry and for the people and children attending our church. I feel like the most blessed pastor in the whole world! I have an immediate family, but I have a much bigger family in Christ. I would not trade this for anything else in the whole world. It is such a blessing to serve the Lord and to have a big family to belong to. There are so many people we love, and they love us too.

Those of you who work outside the church, be thankful for the people God has brought your way. Be thankful for the friends that you have made in your workplace, those who bring you joy. Even if there are people you do not like or get along with that well, pray for them and still be thankful.

People really do count on us to pray for them. There are too many Christians who say they will pray for somebody, but then they forget. Make it a habit to stop and pray with those who ask for prayer. Write prayer requests down and make time to pray for people. As a church, we gather together and pray because we want God to do a tremendous work in the lives of the congregation and the world. People are going through all kinds of crises; they need to be remembered in prayer and not forgotten.

God is in control, and therefore in everything I can give thanks.
~Kay Arthur~

SATURDAY August 17, 2024

Remember to Pray

Philippians 1:3-5

During Paul’s time under house arrest, he had ample time to reflect, remember and pray for the needs of the people that he had met on his missionary journeys. He always prayed and shared his heart with those in Philippi. He did not waste time feeling sorry for his predicament; he prayed with joy, knowing he was in God’s perfect will. He had the right attitude, as written in 1Thessalonians 5:17-18: pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. This is the same attitude to have no matter what you are facing today.

Communion and fellowship with God were some things Paul cherished very early in his Christian walk. He was a man of prayer, and because of his prayer life, he became a leader who knew God intimately. He had direction in life. Paul knew his call. Even though under house arrest, he never lost his vision and purpose––to give people God’s truth. Paul’s ministry produced salvation in the lives of those who heard him.

Prayer is so important. We need constant communion with God, yet we are so busy with all that we do. In fact, everything is so instant in our lives. We purchase food instantly––grab an In-N-Out hamburger or McDonald’s. We are always on our computers looking for instant information, playing games, or ordering products. Life is such a rush!

As a child of God, learn to be still and on your knees. Sit at Jesus’ feet, waiting to hear from the Lord. I have said this often: Prayer is not a one- way communication; it is two-fold. As you pray, God listens. Then when He speaks, you listen––very important! Keep your Bible open when you pray––it is God’s Holy Book. The Lord will speak to you from it.

Start a prayer journal so you, like Paul, can take time to reflect, remember and pray for Christians around the world.

At its deepest level, prayer is fellowship with God: enjoying His company, waiting upon His will, thanking Him for His mercies . . . listening in the silence for what He has to say to us.
~Billy Graham~

FRIDAY August 16, 2024

A Heartfelt Prayer

Philippians 1:3-6

Paul prayed with joy and rejoiced that God had him in this situation––under house arrest. He was not unhappy; he rejoiced! Paul understood God had him under house arrest for a greater purpose. He was an incredible man and so powerful every time he spoke or penned an epistle.

Paul had no self-pity because of his predicament. He was not concerned for himself, but for others. He was not self-centered; He was God- centered––selfless. Paul was a giver by nature, not a receiver. Look how personal Paul was in prayer toward those he loved in Christ. In verses 3-9, notice how many times he said “you or your:”

Verse 3: “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you...”

Verse 4: “... making request for you all with joy...”

Verse 5: “...for your fellowship in the gospel...”

Verse 6: “He [God] who has begun a good work in you will complete it.”

Verse 7: “just as it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart...”

Verse 8: “...how greatly I long for you all with the affection of Jesus Christ.”

Verse 9: “I pray, that your love may abound....”

Do you see how Paul affectionately prayed for the people he had ministered to? He gave himself first to God and then to others until there was nothing else left to give, because he would die for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. When you pray, are you always praying for yourself? How about making a change? Ask God to give you His heart for people and begin to pray for them as well.

In prayer it is better to have a heart without words than words without a heart.
~John Bunyan~

THURSDAY August 15, 2024

Prison Letters

Philippians 1:3-6

After Paul greeted the Philippian church, he continued his letter by writing a personal prayer for them. He wrote about how thankful he was to God for their faith, their prayers, and their love for one another. I find that in Paul’s other letters to churches, this became a familiar theme. He was always thankful and constantly prayed for believers. He had such a great love for the Church throughout the whole Roman world.

These years of correspondence under government arrest were very productive for Paul. He wrote and communicated well to Christians. I know God knew what He was doing in Paul’s life. He used all things for good! It was under house arrest that Paul developed a ministry of prayer.

Think of the many Christians in history who have endured prison, and yet they wrote remarkable prayers for themselves and others. Dietrich Bonhoeffer was imprisoned in Nazi Germany during the Second World War. He wrote:

Lord my God, I thank you that you have brought this day to an end. I thank you that you allowed body and soul to come to rest. Your hand was over me and has protected and preserved me. Forgive all weakness of faith and wrong of this day and help me gladly to forgive those who have done wrong to me. Let me sleep in peace beneath your protection and preserve me from assaults of darkness. I commend to you those dear to me, I commend to you this house, I commend to you my body and soul. God, your holy name be praised. Amen

Another dear soul was a man named John Bunyan. He wrote the famed Pilgrims Progress while in prison because he refused to stop preaching. It has been said that his prison became his study and his sanctuary.

Pray often, for prayer is a shield to the soul, a sacrifice to God, and a scourge to Satan.
~John Bunyan~

WEDNESDAY August 14, 2024

The Joys of Fellowship

Philippians 1:3-6

On his second missionary journey, Paul went to Philippi with Timothy. This incredible area was a province of Rome. As you dock into the harbor and travel up a steep, mountainous hill, all of a sudden you have a stunning view of a great valley and a mountain range with snow.

Do you remember the stories of Acts 16? The first person Paul and his friends encountered by a riverside was Lydia––a wealthy business woman who sold purple cloth. She readily received the gospel and was baptized––along with all her household.

Then Paul and his companions encountered a slave girl who was demon possessed and daily began to harass them. She had a spirit of divination, and her masters made a lot of money from her fortune telling. Paul addressed the demon who spoke through her and said: “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her” (Acts 16:18).

Soon after, Paul and Silas were arrested, as the Jews accused them of teaching customs that were unlawful. They were beaten with rods! It remained unknown to them that Paul was indeed a Roman citizen. At midnight, while they joyfully sang praises and prayed, a great earthquake shook the foundation of the jail, and everyone’s chains fell off!

The keeper of the jail presumed everyone had escaped. Knowing his life was forfeit, he thought to kill himself, but Paul reassured him that they were still in their cell. Desperately, the jailer cried out: “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” He accepted Christ and was saved, he and his household (Acts 16:25-34).

In Paul’s greeting to the church in Philippi, you can tell he was very thankful for all the friends he made through the gospel there.

God’s children are guaranteed the richest and truest friendships, both here and hereafter.
~Billy Graham~

TUESDAY August 13, 2024

Do You Have God’s Peace?

Philippians 1:2

Paul would frequently use the words grace and peace in his greetings. Look at a similar greeting to the believers in Rome: To all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 1:7).

Notice in both books, Philippians and Romans, how Paul used the word grace before the word peace in his greeting. Why did he order these two words that way? The simple answer is that a person cannot receive the peace of God without first receiving the grace of God––His unmerited favor. We do not deserve His grace, but it is freely given to us. Christians are not under the Law of God; they are under the amazing grace of God.

Where does grace come from? It comes from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. These names are not the Messiah’s first, middle and last names. The Lord is His title. It speaks of the relationship we have with Him and it refers to His position of authority. Jesus is His human name as the incarnate, eternal Son of God. Jesus’ name translates to “Jehoshua” or “Yehoshua” which means “Yahweh saves” or “Yahweh is salvation.” Christ is a reference to Him as the Jewish Messiah––“the Anointed One.” Jesus Christ can be properly said, “Jesus the Christ.” He is the One who is still yet to come again (John 14:1-4).

How we need the grace of God in our lives! If we receive His grace, then we can receive his peace. Do you have the peace of God in your life today? If not, receive His free gift of grace: And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ (John 1:16-17).

The peace of God is first and foremost peace with God; it is the state of affairs in which God, instead of being against us, is for us. No account of God's peace which does not start here can do other than mislead.
~J. I. Packer~

MONDAY August 12, 2024

Bishops and Deacons

Philippians 1:1-2

Who else did the Apostle Paul address in his epistle? He commented on bishops and deacons. This is the first time in the New Testament that these leadership positions are mentioned. The word bishop means “overseer.” It refers to leaders of a local congregation. The word deacon means “those who serve.” It refers to those who were responsible for the temporal needs of the congregation, as the men recorded in Acts 6:1-6.

Are you praying about serving in this capacity at church? Consider the qualifications of men called to lead in a position of a bishop or deacon:

This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach; not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous; one who rules his own house well, having his children in submission with all reverence (for if a man does not know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the church of God?); not a novice, lest being puffed up with pride he fall into the same condemnation as the devil. Moreover he must have a good testimony among those who are outside, lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil (1 Timothy 3:1-7).

Likewise deacons must be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money, holding the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience. But let these also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons, being found blameless. ... Let deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a good standing and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus (1 Timothy 3:8-13).

...true leadership, is found in giving yourself in service to others, not in coaxing or inducing others to serve you.
~Oswald Sanders~

SUNDAY August 11, 2024

Separated Ones

Philippians 1:1-2

Did you notice how Paul addressed the believers in Philippi? He called them “saints” in Christ. Saints are not statues that you pray to. Neither does a person become a saint when they die. We who have accepted Jesus Christ are all saints! Biblically, you can call me Saint Raul!

The word saints in the Greek language simply means “holy ones” or “set apart.” In other words, we are those who are “set apart” or called “separate ones” because we are separated to serve our Lord Jesus Christ. Now that we are saved, our lives are to be lived differently from people who are living a worldly life, because we now belong to God.

Christians are God’s peculiar property; our body and soul are at His disposal. We take orders from Him. As we live in obedience to His Word, He has an incredible plan for each of our lives. Think about the costly price of our salvation and the mercy of God in our redemption:

...you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot (1 Peter 1:18-19).

But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy (1 Peter 2:9-10).

We are called out of the darkness, and our position is now in Christ––we walk in the newness of life in His light. We are solely His.

For he [God] has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves....
~Colossians 1:13 NIV~

SATURDAY August 10, 2024

A Sincere Greeting

Philippians 1:1-2

For two entire years, Paul remained under house arrest in Rome. During this time, he wrote his prison epistles––Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians and Philemon. In the book of Ephesians, we have already studied the riches of God toward those who are in Christ and have come to an understanding of who we are in Jesus Christ. The book of Ephesians moved us forward into the practical applications of Christianity.

As we open the pages of the next epistle, we find that Paul, as a servant of Jesus Christ, had a real concern and love for the Philippians. He had established the ministry there on his second missionary journey. Paul wrote to the church in Philippi to thank them for an offering they had sent to the Church in Jerusalem. The Gentiles were supporting the Jews. Interestingly, the givers were not the rich; it was the poor in the church who were compelled to help. Paul knew God was doing a great work among them.

The book of Philippians is not a doctrinal book. It is a very practical book––a book of experience. It is about rejoicing in the Lord, even while being tested by Him. It also shows us how God guides and provides for a person’s life.

Think of Paul’s life for a moment. How would you feel if you were under house arrest? Some of us would be upset or depressed, while others would be an emotional basket case. How did the Apostle deal with the situation? He took the opportunity to share the Gospel with as many people as he could––even the guards who watched over him. A great amount of his time was given to writing these incredible epistles that we have for our encouragement today.

But if you possess faith, your heart cannot do otherwise than laugh for joy in God, and grow free, confident, and courageous. For how can the heart remain sorrowful and dejected when it entertains no doubt of God’s kindness to it, and of his attitude as a good friend with whom it may unreservedly and freely enjoy all things?
~Martin Luther~

FRIDAY August 9, 2024

An Ambassador in Chains

Ephesians 6:19-20

Paul did not waste time while under house arrest. He continued to work––teaching and writing. He wrote the Ephesian Epistle, and in the conclusion, asked believers for prayer. He wanted God to give him utterance. In the Greek language, Paul actually used the word Logos which means “to speak a word or the faculty of speech. The skill and practice of speaking.”

Paul also requested prayer for boldness. He wanted to have a fearless boldness when he had the opportunity to share the mysteries of the gospel with any of the Roman soldiers who had oversight of him. Paul was always ready to share his faith. God enables us to be bold. It is a fearless, confident freedom to speak without care as to what other people may say or think. The only concern he had was for what God thought about him, not man.

Paul knew he was an ambassador in chains, but he also knew that the Word of God was not chained, as seen in his letter to Timothy, his son in the faith:

Remember that Jesus Christ, of the seed of David, was raised from the dead according to my gospel, for which I suffer trouble as an evildoer, even to the point of chains; but the word of God is not chained (2 Timothy 2:8-9).

Paul was content where God had placed him. Even in prison he knew he was in the perfect will of God. The Word of God had free course and was unhindered by his chains. Are you content with the will of God today? Know this, no matter your situation, be ready to share the gospel message with boldness. God is still at work in your circumstances.

The most critical need of the church at this moment is men, bold men, free men. The church must seek, in prayer and much humility, the coming again of men made of the stuff of which prophets and martyrs are made.
~A.W. Tozer~

THURSDAY August 8, 2024

Hindrances to Prayer

Psalm 66:18

It is important to understand that God is holy, and He will not answer prayer if a person is willfully living a life of sin. Some sins are less obvious––they are hidden sins within a person’s heart. Did you know unforgiveness is a sin before God? It will hinder our prayers. If a person harbors hate in their heart, how can God answer their prayers?

Examine your heart before God. Is there someone you need to forgive? Although forgiving someone is difficult, Jesus, in the Sermon on the Mount, taught His disciples a serious consequence of unforgiveness:

“For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew 6:14-15).

Let the Lord work through your forgiveness. Do your part and leave the results in God’s hands. Make sure that your heart is right before Him. That is what matters most. Disunity, envy, bitterness and jealousy are all sins in the heart that will hinder a believer’s prayers. We need to be in unity with other believers, both in prayer and as we serve alongside each other. What did Jesus reveal to believers gathered together in unity to pray?

“Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:19-20).

God works through unified believers; He is in the midst of them! Prayer is too important to be hindered; we all want our prayers to be answered. What is hindering your prayers? Do not let unforgiveness or any other sin become an obstacle to your prayer life. What actions will you take today to make your heart right before God?

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
~Psalm 51:10~

WEDNESDAY August 7, 2024

Is Your Prayer Life Effectual?

James 5:16

What are some of the practical things we can do to make our prayer lives effective? Christians must first realize that, as they pray, they are entering into the Holy of Holies––God’s throne room. Although they can come boldly into His presence (Hebrews 4:16), they are to have the right attitude of humility and godly reverence.

The Apostle Paul spoke of prayer as a spiritual weapon against the enemy: praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit... (Ephesians 6:18). He gave us insight into the most effective position to pray––standing (Ephesians 6:11). Other positions can be used while praying––sitting, kneeling or bowing down––but lying down to pray is a dangerous position. As you become comfortable, all of a sudden you will find yourself slipping into a deep, deep meditation––you have fallen asleep! Sleepiness will cause your prayers to be ineffective.

The Apostle James also knew prayer had the capability to be a very effective spiritual weapon. The word effective in the Greek language means “to put forth power, be operative, to work.” Effective prayer will bring a man or woman into direct alignment with the will of God.

Every day of our lives we can engage in prayer. I like to take walks when I pray. In the evening on a clear night, I walk and talk to the Lord. I find my prayers to be most effective that way. I am wide awake, there is less noise, and there are hardly any distractions. Some people find a quiet place where they can be alone to pray. Prayer should come naturally from our hearts as we commune with the Lord. It is good to have your Bible with you so God can speak to you through the Scriptures. Prayer is a two-way communication.

The Bible tells us, we can pray to God in secret, and He will reward us openly (Matthew 6:6). There is power in prayer. God hears our prayers, and He places around us a defense against Satan’s schemes.

It is the effectual, fervent prayer that influences God.
~E.M. Bounds~