Philippians 1
Bible Passage: Philippians 1
We move on to a new book today – Philippians.
The book of Philippians was an epistle written by Paul while in prison, showing his love and appreciation to the Philippians for their continuous help and support.
Although Paul was facing the prospect of death, he could proclaim with conviction that
“For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain”
Philippians 1:21
This was indeed remarkable! Paul had a clear focus and his passion was in Christ.
Today, in our affluent and comfortable lives where we are not persecuted for going to church, how many of us could say this like Paul did?
We read a verse like this, nod our heads in agreement but the question is, are we really living our lives in such a way that we can honestly say, to live is Christ, to die is gain?
What do we devote most of our time and energy in, what stirs our hearts, what do we spend our time and money on?
What is it that drives us and gives our lives meaning?
Perhaps we once felt the same way. After we were baptized, after we received the Holy Spirit, we resolve to live our lives for God and aim to please Him in every way.
But now with new commitments and distractions, we might have lost this focus.
IF WE REALLY LOVE HIM…
If we really love someone, we would want to spend more time talking to him/her, taking time to communicate our love. If we say we love God, we would want to spend more time in prayer, talking to Him and worshipping Him.
If we love someone, naturally we will speak highly of that person to others. Paul had a close relationship with Jesus and he wanted others to know Him just like he did. Similarly, we would want unbelievers to know His goodness; we want to share with them the good news!
With the evangelistic service around the corner on 1st, 2nd and 3rd of July, let us seize this opportunity to tell our friends and family about Jesus whom we love.
Jesus says in John 14:15
“If you love me, keep My commandments.”
Our love, devotion and commitment to Christ are reflected by our obedience to Him.
May God guide us to lead lives pleasing to Him.
One Comment
PS
Paul prayed for the brethren in Philippians that their love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment that they may approve the things that are excellent, that they may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ (Philippians 1:9-10)
The phrase “approve the things that are excellent” is recorded as 能分别是非or喜爱那美好的事。
This is part of being “to live is Christ”, isn’t it?
That we are able to discern what is holy and unholy, and bear fruits of righteousness and be without offense till the day of Christ, to the glory and praise of God.
Paul remained and continued with the brethren all for their progress and joy of faith.
Today we read the epistles of Paul as many times as we like while the brethren in Philippians might not even be as blessed as we are.
However are we progressing in faith and joy as much as they were?
Is our love abounding more and more in knowledge and discernment as much as they were?
Is there a simple way to know if our love is abounding more and more in knowledge and discernment?
The simple litmus test is in Philippians 1:14 …much more bold to speak the word without fear.
It is not a matter of thicker skin.
It is a matter of putting on Christ and having Him as our head.