I hope you have enjoyed our study of Malachi. I thought it would be neat for us to look at some of the last words spoken by God to us before the birth of His Son. It is such a relevant word for us as we are celebrating the birth of Jesus this month.
Malachi 4 starts with a reminder that there will be a day when the Lord Jesus comes again to judge this world. For the wicked, this day shall be a terrible fire. Malachi describes the day as burning like an oven or furnace. In Malachi’s day, an oven was a large hole in the ground, and the sides of the hole were plastered. A fire was made at the bottom of the hole. To start the fire, they would put grass, thorns, twigs, etc. The items used to start the fire were called the stubble. It was quickly consumed as the fire started, so they could place the bread to cook on the side of the oven. Malachi says that the unrighteous, like the stubble, will be quickly consumed on the day of God’s wrath. Malachi also says the unrighteous will not be left - no branch or root. Remember that Hebrews tells us that God is a consuming fire. Revelation says that the kings of the earth and great men will seek out the rocks and mountains to hide. It is an awful reality that those found guilty will consciously suffer torment and torture throughout all eternity.
The things that Malachi tells us about the day of the Lord should motivate us to pray and share with the lost. Do you have any friends or family members that do not know Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior? Put them in context of this passage. I know you do not desire for them to have to face the day of judgment without Jesus. Do not hesitate to share with them. Only God can change their heart, but you can be an instrument to share truth. Their eternal destination is more important than all your reasons for not sharing truth.
As we continue to read in Malachi 4, we see the outcome for the righteous is much different. Verses two and three brought much comfort to my heart. We have so much to look forward to. Jesus is coming again with healing in His wings. Oh, how I need to hear this. When I look at the suffering around me and the challenges in my own life, I am encouraged when I remember that there is a day coming when Jesus will wipe every tear from my eye. No more crying and suffering. Hallelujah! The best is yet to come. God’s day of justice is ahead. We will be healed from the bondage and sickness of sin. This freedom will cause us to leap like a calf that has been stall fed and is then released. We too should jump for joy as we think about what is to come for us who fear God. Even though we have much to anticipate, Malachi reminds us that today is a day for obeying. In order for us to be prepared for what is to come, we need to follow God now. Be ready. Jesus is coming again.
The last words spoken in Malachi 4 are about the curse. The curse lingered until Jesus was born and then died on the cross. He was made a curse for us, so we can experience all of God’s blessings. This is the message we must share with others. Do you remember what some of the first words that were spoken to the people after the 400 years of silence? God said through John the Baptist, “Repent, the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.” The message is still the same today. Live it and speak it.
--Jennifer Jones, Discipleship Manager
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Malachi 3
Let's review Malachi a little, shall we? In chapter one he is telling the priests that they might as well not even sacrifice at all if they are not going to do it wholeheartedly and according to law. I always apply this to my life in the context of work. I find myself some days moving a little slow and not really giving it my all. In Colossians we are commanded to do all things to the glory of God. ALL THINGS. That is a lot of things, and if we followed it constantly it would keep us from doing the other things we should not be doing.
In chapter 2, Malachi addresses the issue of the people intermarrying with daughters of foreign gods. Uh-Oh, this a big no-no. You could apply this to attaching yourself to things that take you away from God. It reminds me of the little thing where one sin can lead to oh so many more. Scary thought but true.
Well, chapter three intrigued me for sure. I did a little summary of it to see the bigger picture. It is the prophecy of Jesus (the messenger). He will purify the priests that were sinning in chapter one, so they would sacrifice in righteousness. However, He will still judge others who are stuck in their sin. Here He beckons the priests to turn back to Him (By the way, I love that He still wants them, and He still wants us no matter what). When they ask Him how, He tells them. I love the big picture. It always looks better than a tiny piece even though all the tiny pieces are required for the full beauty. The bigger picture here is our willingness to change allows us to accept God's grace. How many times do we see it in the Word? It covered me like a blanket as I read these chapters today. He still wants me, even if I don't give Him the best He deserves. The same is true for all of us, all the time. If you are in a relationship with God, you are in a covenant with Him (like the priests in chapter 2). He wants His people that are in covenant with Him to be fully in that covenant. Turn to Him, He wants you!
-- Kristi Smith, Summer Camp Staff
In chapter 2, Malachi addresses the issue of the people intermarrying with daughters of foreign gods. Uh-Oh, this a big no-no. You could apply this to attaching yourself to things that take you away from God. It reminds me of the little thing where one sin can lead to oh so many more. Scary thought but true.
Well, chapter three intrigued me for sure. I did a little summary of it to see the bigger picture. It is the prophecy of Jesus (the messenger). He will purify the priests that were sinning in chapter one, so they would sacrifice in righteousness. However, He will still judge others who are stuck in their sin. Here He beckons the priests to turn back to Him (By the way, I love that He still wants them, and He still wants us no matter what). When they ask Him how, He tells them. I love the big picture. It always looks better than a tiny piece even though all the tiny pieces are required for the full beauty. The bigger picture here is our willingness to change allows us to accept God's grace. How many times do we see it in the Word? It covered me like a blanket as I read these chapters today. He still wants me, even if I don't give Him the best He deserves. The same is true for all of us, all the time. If you are in a relationship with God, you are in a covenant with Him (like the priests in chapter 2). He wants His people that are in covenant with Him to be fully in that covenant. Turn to Him, He wants you!
-- Kristi Smith, Summer Camp Staff
Malachi 2
Malachi is a book of prophecy and although it refers directly to two of the tribes of Israel, we can easily apply what it talks about.
Today men and women cover themselves with the name of Christ but live a life that defiles His name. They get married to the first lust they can find knowing that divorce is always a quick fix just around the corner if any problems arise. They claim that we can sin all we want and the mercies of God will cover us. Wouldn’t you agree that this is true in our day?
Through Malachi, the Lord addresses these exact issues and I believe that the sternness that He uses while talking to the tribes of Israel was just as intended for us – it should make us repentant. The irony falls when we easily claim that these things are widespread in our society, but we are slow to admit that they are just as prevalent in our lives.
We all make it know in some way or another that we are believers of Christ but we don’t ever realize that at the same time we are showing people our negative actions. The Lord literally abhors this. It not only defiles us and what we stand for, but it tarnishes His name. God is so adamant about us not doing this that he says he will “rebuke your descendants”. We must remember that we are always being watched and the ways that we act reflect on those we hold claim to.
Further, divorce is common. You may be quick to dismiss this because you are unmarried, or have never been divorced, but look at what the Lord says: “So guard yourself in your spirit, and do not break faith with the wife of your youth.” So what is the “wife of your youth” I could be wrong, but I like to think that here God is referring to himself. When we first accept him into our lives we make a commitment to Him; we chose to live with Him for the rest of our lives. Multiple times in Malachi, God says that he is looking for godly offspring and if we do not stay true to our original commitment to Him not only will we be ungodly offspring, but we will bear ungodly offspring as well.
Lastly, it is so easy for us to hold so tight to mercy that we forget about how we need to act. In the last verses of this chapter God talks about how He is weary of what we keep saying: “All who do evil are good in the eyes of the LORD, and He is pleased with them". We do evil and then claim that we are good and that God is pleased with us. Do you think He is pleased with us when we defile His name and forget about Him?
In closing, I want to stress that we should never dilute the effectiveness or availability of His grace and His mercy. It is always there and covers everything. At the same time, we must remember that God is a God of perfection and He calls us to that. Through Christ we are called to be perfect, and in that we must act the part. Live for Him, remain committed to Him, and honor Him. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
--Seth Gordon, Recreation Director
Today men and women cover themselves with the name of Christ but live a life that defiles His name. They get married to the first lust they can find knowing that divorce is always a quick fix just around the corner if any problems arise. They claim that we can sin all we want and the mercies of God will cover us. Wouldn’t you agree that this is true in our day?
Through Malachi, the Lord addresses these exact issues and I believe that the sternness that He uses while talking to the tribes of Israel was just as intended for us – it should make us repentant. The irony falls when we easily claim that these things are widespread in our society, but we are slow to admit that they are just as prevalent in our lives.
We all make it know in some way or another that we are believers of Christ but we don’t ever realize that at the same time we are showing people our negative actions. The Lord literally abhors this. It not only defiles us and what we stand for, but it tarnishes His name. God is so adamant about us not doing this that he says he will “rebuke your descendants”. We must remember that we are always being watched and the ways that we act reflect on those we hold claim to.
Further, divorce is common. You may be quick to dismiss this because you are unmarried, or have never been divorced, but look at what the Lord says: “So guard yourself in your spirit, and do not break faith with the wife of your youth.” So what is the “wife of your youth” I could be wrong, but I like to think that here God is referring to himself. When we first accept him into our lives we make a commitment to Him; we chose to live with Him for the rest of our lives. Multiple times in Malachi, God says that he is looking for godly offspring and if we do not stay true to our original commitment to Him not only will we be ungodly offspring, but we will bear ungodly offspring as well.
Lastly, it is so easy for us to hold so tight to mercy that we forget about how we need to act. In the last verses of this chapter God talks about how He is weary of what we keep saying: “All who do evil are good in the eyes of the LORD, and He is pleased with them". We do evil and then claim that we are good and that God is pleased with us. Do you think He is pleased with us when we defile His name and forget about Him?
In closing, I want to stress that we should never dilute the effectiveness or availability of His grace and His mercy. It is always there and covers everything. At the same time, we must remember that God is a God of perfection and He calls us to that. Through Christ we are called to be perfect, and in that we must act the part. Live for Him, remain committed to Him, and honor Him. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
--Seth Gordon, Recreation Director
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Malachi 1
Let’s start with some background on Malachi:
Malachi means “My Messenger” and the commentary community is divided on whether Malachi’s parents had some amazing forethought when they named him or if Malachi is a pseudonym that someone chose to write under. Either way, the book of Malachi contains a message from God to His people.
The message was written after the return of the exiles from captivity AND after the returned exiles completed the restoration of the Temple. The spiritual, ethical, and moral tone of the nation was low, and Malachi’s purpose was to confront the people with their sins and to encourage them to pursue holiness.
Malachi Chapter 1
Right off the bat Malachi challenges our theology - ‘but I have hated Esau’ vs 3. We’re not going to spend a lot of time on this section, but what we need to know is that this love/hate thing is really covenant language. What God is reminding the people through Malachi is that He chose Jacob for the blessing. These people are descendants of Jacob and are in covenant with God, but they have forgotten the covenant. They arrogantly ask God, “How have you loved us?” His answer to them is that because He is God and for no other reason, He chose to bless Jacob. The ways of God are beyond us.
The rest of the chapter is an indictment of the priests. They had been offering sacrifices that were not acceptable to God. They brought things to God that they would not have given to a local politician. The animals they were bringing were blind and sick and they even brought things before God that had been stolen. Talk about going through the motions – they had returned to their homeland, they had restored the Temple, they were making sacrifices; but they were only God’s people in name. Their hearts were far from Him. God had Malachi deliver a message to His people begging them to remember His blessing, to remember that they were in covenant with Him and that He loved them. We sometimes put God in the same situation. We do our thing: church, small groups, a check in the offering plate or some cash to the homeless guy on the corner. With us, like the Israelites, God is not interested in our outward acts of sacrifice — He wants our hearts. He wants us to remember that we are in covenant with Him, that He has loved us with an unfailing love, and then He wants our lives to reflect Him. He gets our first fruits, we love each other, and are generous, extravagant givers. If He had our hearts, imagine how the world would see His people.
--Natalie West, Summer Camp Director
Malachi means “My Messenger” and the commentary community is divided on whether Malachi’s parents had some amazing forethought when they named him or if Malachi is a pseudonym that someone chose to write under. Either way, the book of Malachi contains a message from God to His people.
The message was written after the return of the exiles from captivity AND after the returned exiles completed the restoration of the Temple. The spiritual, ethical, and moral tone of the nation was low, and Malachi’s purpose was to confront the people with their sins and to encourage them to pursue holiness.
Malachi Chapter 1
Right off the bat Malachi challenges our theology - ‘but I have hated Esau’ vs 3. We’re not going to spend a lot of time on this section, but what we need to know is that this love/hate thing is really covenant language. What God is reminding the people through Malachi is that He chose Jacob for the blessing. These people are descendants of Jacob and are in covenant with God, but they have forgotten the covenant. They arrogantly ask God, “How have you loved us?” His answer to them is that because He is God and for no other reason, He chose to bless Jacob. The ways of God are beyond us.
The rest of the chapter is an indictment of the priests. They had been offering sacrifices that were not acceptable to God. They brought things to God that they would not have given to a local politician. The animals they were bringing were blind and sick and they even brought things before God that had been stolen. Talk about going through the motions – they had returned to their homeland, they had restored the Temple, they were making sacrifices; but they were only God’s people in name. Their hearts were far from Him. God had Malachi deliver a message to His people begging them to remember His blessing, to remember that they were in covenant with Him and that He loved them. We sometimes put God in the same situation. We do our thing: church, small groups, a check in the offering plate or some cash to the homeless guy on the corner. With us, like the Israelites, God is not interested in our outward acts of sacrifice — He wants our hearts. He wants us to remember that we are in covenant with Him, that He has loved us with an unfailing love, and then He wants our lives to reflect Him. He gets our first fruits, we love each other, and are generous, extravagant givers. If He had our hearts, imagine how the world would see His people.
--Natalie West, Summer Camp Director
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Philippians 4:10-23
We have made it to the last section of Philippians. I pray that God’s Word is dwelling in you richly because you have taken the time to read and study it. I know that I have learned a lot from Paul’s example. When you look at how Paul had joy in such dire circumstances, it is amazing. As Paul said, “Follow his example as he follows the example of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1)
In Philippians 4:10-23, Paul sets an example for us once again. He challenges us in an area that we do not like to be challenged. He shows us the blessing of contentment which causes us to evaluate our own contentment.
Contentment is an inward gracious frame of spirit that freely submits to God’s wisdom and sovereignty in every situation (definition from John MacArthur). It is a highly prized virtue that is often sought after in the wrong places. Contentment cannot be found in relationships, our accomplishments, money, a job, etc. We will only be content when we are rightly related to God, trusting in His ways. When we understand that He is truly all we need, then we will be able to experience the blessing of contentment.
Philippians 4:10-23 gives us a picture through Paul’s life of what a contented person looks like. First, a contented person will be satisfied with little. We have already mentioned Paul’s circumstances several times as we have studied the book of Philippians. We know they were not good- prisoner, small living quarters, chained to a guard, sparse diet, etc. Paul understood that the goal of his life was not to get his needs met but to glorify God. He learned how to live with little knowing that his time on earth was only temporary. He would be feasting at the table of the Lord forever. This truth enabled him to be thankful for the little he had and kept his focus on the eternal.
Next, a contented person looks beyond their circumstances to the power of God. When Paul said that he could do all things through Christ who gave him strength, he was referring to contentment. He could do all things through Christ regardless of the circumstances. The Greek of “I can do” means to be strong or to have power and resources. Paul could overcome the most challenging physical difficulties because of his inner spiritual strength. Paul banked his life on truths like Ephesians 3:20 and 2 Corinthians 12:9-10- “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us.” and “But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
Finally, a contented person is concerned about the needs of others. Even as the Philippians gave their gift to Paul, he reminded them of the benefit it was to them. Paul was excited about how they would know God more through their obedient giving. Paul also encouraged the Philippians in vs.19- God will meet all their needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Paul was more concerned that the people around Him know Jesus than he was about his own comfort.
Evaluate in your own life whether you exhibit these qualities- satisfied with what you have, focused on God’s power, and concerned about the needs of others. With true contentment, these will come. Remember that contentment is not only a virtue but a command (Hebrews 13:5).
Contentment is not the fulfillment of what you want, but the realization of all you have.
Godliness with contentment is great gain. 1 Timothy 6:6
--Jennifer Jones, Discipleship Manager
In Philippians 4:10-23, Paul sets an example for us once again. He challenges us in an area that we do not like to be challenged. He shows us the blessing of contentment which causes us to evaluate our own contentment.
Contentment is an inward gracious frame of spirit that freely submits to God’s wisdom and sovereignty in every situation (definition from John MacArthur). It is a highly prized virtue that is often sought after in the wrong places. Contentment cannot be found in relationships, our accomplishments, money, a job, etc. We will only be content when we are rightly related to God, trusting in His ways. When we understand that He is truly all we need, then we will be able to experience the blessing of contentment.
Philippians 4:10-23 gives us a picture through Paul’s life of what a contented person looks like. First, a contented person will be satisfied with little. We have already mentioned Paul’s circumstances several times as we have studied the book of Philippians. We know they were not good- prisoner, small living quarters, chained to a guard, sparse diet, etc. Paul understood that the goal of his life was not to get his needs met but to glorify God. He learned how to live with little knowing that his time on earth was only temporary. He would be feasting at the table of the Lord forever. This truth enabled him to be thankful for the little he had and kept his focus on the eternal.
Next, a contented person looks beyond their circumstances to the power of God. When Paul said that he could do all things through Christ who gave him strength, he was referring to contentment. He could do all things through Christ regardless of the circumstances. The Greek of “I can do” means to be strong or to have power and resources. Paul could overcome the most challenging physical difficulties because of his inner spiritual strength. Paul banked his life on truths like Ephesians 3:20 and 2 Corinthians 12:9-10- “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us.” and “But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
Finally, a contented person is concerned about the needs of others. Even as the Philippians gave their gift to Paul, he reminded them of the benefit it was to them. Paul was excited about how they would know God more through their obedient giving. Paul also encouraged the Philippians in vs.19- God will meet all their needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Paul was more concerned that the people around Him know Jesus than he was about his own comfort.
Evaluate in your own life whether you exhibit these qualities- satisfied with what you have, focused on God’s power, and concerned about the needs of others. With true contentment, these will come. Remember that contentment is not only a virtue but a command (Hebrews 13:5).
Contentment is not the fulfillment of what you want, but the realization of all you have.
Godliness with contentment is great gain. 1 Timothy 6:6
--Jennifer Jones, Discipleship Manager
Monday, November 3, 2008
Philippians 4:1-9
Philippians focuses a lot on being joyful in all circumstances. Seeking God and knowing Him more so that joy always is possible. In this passage, we see this again encouraged by Paul. For me to understand the beginning of chapter 4, I needed to go back to the second half of chapter three to see what exactly it was that Paul was telling the Philippians when he said “this is how you should stand firm in the Lord”. This is what I found:
1. We are to press on toward our goal, which is heaven and Christ/pleasing Him. That should be our desire and attitude. I hate finding myself in a complaining attitude, which happens quite a bit to be honest. The reason I hate it so much, is because I know I have so much to be thankful for- salvation, provisions, loved ones and laughter. There should be no room for complaining. I am easily selfish and “feel sorry for myself” when there are so many other reasons to be sad, like Paul for example weeping for the lost.
2. We are to live up to what we have attained, our salvation. We need to live like we have been given this gift. When you are given a great gift, how do you react? Do you complain or scowl? No! It temporarily fills us with happiness. This other gift I am talking about though, it is eternal. We sure don’t act like it. We are not perfect but will continue to be sanctified, but we have Jesus now and it should be evident. We are daily called to walk in the way that we talk. No double face stuff. That is not standing firm.
3. Another way we can stand firm is by standing with others, especially those who are wiser by age and spiritual walk. If you surround yourself with genuine people who know how to stand firm, and do a good job at it, there is no room for anything but growth for you. In those people you have ears that will listen, mouths for guidance and arms for comfort.
In Chapter 4, we see even more ways to stand firm that follow up the ones I just listed. REJOICE in the Lord. He is the only consistent, the only for sure, and the only satisfaction that we will ever know here on this earth. Even when our circumstances are incomparable, He is the same and has your best interest. “The Lord is near”. Verse 6 commands us to not be anxious for these reasons. The reward of those who obey is God’s peace past understanding to guard their minds and hearts. The more we are able to give Him the hardships of life and trust Him with them, the more that all surpassing peace will be a part of our lives. The thing I want to leave you with is a final, very important factor of standing firm. It is our thoughts. This summer we memorized a verse or two about where our thoughts should be. Do you remember still? Do you remember it when you are thinking about all the unimportant things in life? I am one of the worst on this subject. It has been a battle in my life as long as I can remember. Paul tells us that the true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy things are what we should be thinking about. It always brings me back to Col. 3:1-2. Keep your minds (and your hearts even) on things above. In doing so, you practice standing firm.
--Kristi Smith, Assisant Summer Camp Director
1. We are to press on toward our goal, which is heaven and Christ/pleasing Him. That should be our desire and attitude. I hate finding myself in a complaining attitude, which happens quite a bit to be honest. The reason I hate it so much, is because I know I have so much to be thankful for- salvation, provisions, loved ones and laughter. There should be no room for complaining. I am easily selfish and “feel sorry for myself” when there are so many other reasons to be sad, like Paul for example weeping for the lost.
2. We are to live up to what we have attained, our salvation. We need to live like we have been given this gift. When you are given a great gift, how do you react? Do you complain or scowl? No! It temporarily fills us with happiness. This other gift I am talking about though, it is eternal. We sure don’t act like it. We are not perfect but will continue to be sanctified, but we have Jesus now and it should be evident. We are daily called to walk in the way that we talk. No double face stuff. That is not standing firm.
3. Another way we can stand firm is by standing with others, especially those who are wiser by age and spiritual walk. If you surround yourself with genuine people who know how to stand firm, and do a good job at it, there is no room for anything but growth for you. In those people you have ears that will listen, mouths for guidance and arms for comfort.
In Chapter 4, we see even more ways to stand firm that follow up the ones I just listed. REJOICE in the Lord. He is the only consistent, the only for sure, and the only satisfaction that we will ever know here on this earth. Even when our circumstances are incomparable, He is the same and has your best interest. “The Lord is near”. Verse 6 commands us to not be anxious for these reasons. The reward of those who obey is God’s peace past understanding to guard their minds and hearts. The more we are able to give Him the hardships of life and trust Him with them, the more that all surpassing peace will be a part of our lives. The thing I want to leave you with is a final, very important factor of standing firm. It is our thoughts. This summer we memorized a verse or two about where our thoughts should be. Do you remember still? Do you remember it when you are thinking about all the unimportant things in life? I am one of the worst on this subject. It has been a battle in my life as long as I can remember. Paul tells us that the true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy things are what we should be thinking about. It always brings me back to Col. 3:1-2. Keep your minds (and your hearts even) on things above. In doing so, you practice standing firm.
--Kristi Smith, Assisant Summer Camp Director
Philippians 3:12-21
Its way to easy to read these verses and agree with Paul and then move on. But if we agree with Paul we must take action.
Goals are things we talk about and set in our lives constantly. Sometimes we don’t even realize that we set them for ourselves because we don’t think of them as goals; like what time we hope to get somewhere, how much we want to get done in a day, or what grade we hope to make on a test. Each goal that we set for ourselves is instrumental in driving what we do each day and motivating our actions. However, a goal can only be effective if it has all of the needed elements to create action:
1.You must know what your goal is.
2.If it is a broad goal, you need more specific ones to drive the bigger one.
3.If it is long term, you need shorter term goals to help you remain focused.
4.You need accountability – someone to push you and coach you on.
5.You must have a desire to accomplish the goal.
I'm sure there are other things needed, but these are a few important factors. Let’s look at an example:
Let’s say that I wanted to finish cleaning the pool by the end of the day. I start of by knowing my goal. It could be a small enough goal to leave it at that, but for the sake of the above I’ll need to have smaller and more specific goals: I plan to have the deep end finished before lunch and the shallow end finished before 2:00. I know that my boss is expecting for me to have it cleaned and if I don’t there is a penalty – so that acts as my accountability, and can act as a motivating force for my desire to accomplish the goal. Further, I know there is a storm coming in and I don’t want to work in the rain so I really want to get it finished today.This example has all of the elements listed above, which leads me to action.
So why am I telling you all of this? Because we can look at these verses, say that we agree with Paul – we need to push on and take hold of this. But with goals like this one, it is so easy to lose focus. First of all what is the goal? Paul says, “I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.” He also uses a few pronouns to refer to the goal like “it” or “this”, but he never actually states the goal in these verses. So what is it that we are so fervently pressing on towards and seeking after; what is the goal? This might be a good time for you to think about that – re-read these verses and see if you can decide for yourself – otherwise you can move on.
I believe that the answer can be found in the verses just above the ones we are studying this week: our goal is to know and gain Christ and to have righteousness from faith in Him. Wow, that’s a big goal. How do we get there? What can we do to reach this goal? I think we all know the small answers to these questions, but in order to reach our main goal; we need to have very specific ways in mind that can lead us there. We also can easily forget what the main goal is because the outcome is only reached in the distant future. We need to have short term goals set up along the way to keep us on track. Do you have these set up in your life? Most of us know the main goal, and we know how to reach it, but we don’t set up the small goals that keep us moving in the right direction.
Further we need a coach; someone who can guide us and lead us to our goal. Do you have someone like this in your life? A pastor is a great example, but do you have a close peer or friend that is willing to ask you the tough questions?
Lastly we need a desire. In Paul's life it was clear that he was willing to give up everything to accomplish his goal. He said that everything else was worthless compared to just knowing Christ. I doubt that many people feel as strongly as he did, but our motivation can only increase with our faith. If we believe, God will encourage us, and with that encouragement we will grow and desire more. As we press on toward the goal of knowing Christ more, we must remain focused and motivated by His love.
-- Seth Gordon, Recreation Director
Goals are things we talk about and set in our lives constantly. Sometimes we don’t even realize that we set them for ourselves because we don’t think of them as goals; like what time we hope to get somewhere, how much we want to get done in a day, or what grade we hope to make on a test. Each goal that we set for ourselves is instrumental in driving what we do each day and motivating our actions. However, a goal can only be effective if it has all of the needed elements to create action:
1.You must know what your goal is.
2.If it is a broad goal, you need more specific ones to drive the bigger one.
3.If it is long term, you need shorter term goals to help you remain focused.
4.You need accountability – someone to push you and coach you on.
5.You must have a desire to accomplish the goal.
I'm sure there are other things needed, but these are a few important factors. Let’s look at an example:
Let’s say that I wanted to finish cleaning the pool by the end of the day. I start of by knowing my goal. It could be a small enough goal to leave it at that, but for the sake of the above I’ll need to have smaller and more specific goals: I plan to have the deep end finished before lunch and the shallow end finished before 2:00. I know that my boss is expecting for me to have it cleaned and if I don’t there is a penalty – so that acts as my accountability, and can act as a motivating force for my desire to accomplish the goal. Further, I know there is a storm coming in and I don’t want to work in the rain so I really want to get it finished today.This example has all of the elements listed above, which leads me to action.
So why am I telling you all of this? Because we can look at these verses, say that we agree with Paul – we need to push on and take hold of this. But with goals like this one, it is so easy to lose focus. First of all what is the goal? Paul says, “I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.” He also uses a few pronouns to refer to the goal like “it” or “this”, but he never actually states the goal in these verses. So what is it that we are so fervently pressing on towards and seeking after; what is the goal? This might be a good time for you to think about that – re-read these verses and see if you can decide for yourself – otherwise you can move on.
I believe that the answer can be found in the verses just above the ones we are studying this week: our goal is to know and gain Christ and to have righteousness from faith in Him. Wow, that’s a big goal. How do we get there? What can we do to reach this goal? I think we all know the small answers to these questions, but in order to reach our main goal; we need to have very specific ways in mind that can lead us there. We also can easily forget what the main goal is because the outcome is only reached in the distant future. We need to have short term goals set up along the way to keep us on track. Do you have these set up in your life? Most of us know the main goal, and we know how to reach it, but we don’t set up the small goals that keep us moving in the right direction.
Further we need a coach; someone who can guide us and lead us to our goal. Do you have someone like this in your life? A pastor is a great example, but do you have a close peer or friend that is willing to ask you the tough questions?
Lastly we need a desire. In Paul's life it was clear that he was willing to give up everything to accomplish his goal. He said that everything else was worthless compared to just knowing Christ. I doubt that many people feel as strongly as he did, but our motivation can only increase with our faith. If we believe, God will encourage us, and with that encouragement we will grow and desire more. As we press on toward the goal of knowing Christ more, we must remain focused and motivated by His love.
-- Seth Gordon, Recreation Director
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Philippians 3:1-11
We’re half-way through Philippians (at least according to the chapter divisions), and it seems like Paul is trying to wrap up the letter... Finally brothers, rejoice... Rejoice (or joy) appears in the letter 16 times (in the NAS translation). Let’s think back to our last Lit Class and try to remember what it means when an author uses repetition. I’m just guessing here, but it seems like Paul is pretty stuck on the emotional state of the Christians in Philippi. As verse 1 indicates, he has already instructed the Philippians to rejoice earlier in the letter, here in verse 1 he repeats it, and he’ll say it again in chapter 4. Now, as we have already seen in our study of the Letter to the Philippians, and as we will see again in future passages, the book is full of really deep theology and seemingly impossible commands (he sure could have spent more time on that DO NOT COMPLAIN thing), but what Paul keeps coming back to, what he peppers in all throughout the letter, is rejoicing. So, I think that we can take two things from this fact:
First, joy is a choice that we make. Fundamentally, as much as we would like to argue to the contrary, when we are in Christ the way we feel should not be dependent on our circumstances. Paul tells the Philippians to rejoice. There are no ‘if’s, no exceptions for bad days, crummy roommates or depressing weather. Rejoice in the Lord – I’ll write it down again – rejoice - again I say – rejoice. Salvation in Jesus Christ alone is enough for joy, now do it.
Second, let’s remember where Paul was when he was writing the letter. Learning to rejoice in the Lord while in prison must have been an incredible way to learn the lesson. Have you ever noticed that what the Lord is teaching you tends to be the thing that you can’t seem to shut up about? Paul is uncomfortable in every way, but he is obviously having some incredibly joyous times with the Lord. So much so, he can’t quit talking about it. We ought to be the same way – that really fresh lesson, the piece of Himself that the Lord is showing you right now, ought to be the thing we repeat to the people around us. Just as in the context of the letter, we can hear the joy in Paul’s voice as he almost begs the Philippians to rejoice, our conversations ought to drip with the truth of how God is moving in our lives – what an encouragement we would be to each other!
--Natalie West, Summer Camp Director
First, joy is a choice that we make. Fundamentally, as much as we would like to argue to the contrary, when we are in Christ the way we feel should not be dependent on our circumstances. Paul tells the Philippians to rejoice. There are no ‘if’s, no exceptions for bad days, crummy roommates or depressing weather. Rejoice in the Lord – I’ll write it down again – rejoice - again I say – rejoice. Salvation in Jesus Christ alone is enough for joy, now do it.
Second, let’s remember where Paul was when he was writing the letter. Learning to rejoice in the Lord while in prison must have been an incredible way to learn the lesson. Have you ever noticed that what the Lord is teaching you tends to be the thing that you can’t seem to shut up about? Paul is uncomfortable in every way, but he is obviously having some incredibly joyous times with the Lord. So much so, he can’t quit talking about it. We ought to be the same way – that really fresh lesson, the piece of Himself that the Lord is showing you right now, ought to be the thing we repeat to the people around us. Just as in the context of the letter, we can hear the joy in Paul’s voice as he almost begs the Philippians to rejoice, our conversations ought to drip with the truth of how God is moving in our lives – what an encouragement we would be to each other!
--Natalie West, Summer Camp Director
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Philippians 2:19-30
In Philippians 2:19- 30, Paul talks about two men whose lives provide a great example for how we should live. First, Paul describes several characteristics of Timothy that we should emulate. Paul shares with the Philippians that Timothy takes a genuine interest in their needs. The Greek word for interest means a strong feeling to the point of being burdened. Timothy is sympathetic and truly wants to help the Philippians in whatever way he can. He thinks about them, prays for them, and is even willing to set aside his own needs for the sake of the Philippians knowing God more. Further, Timothy is single-minded with a focus on God’s will. He obviously knows it is God’s will for Him to look to the needs of others before his own. He has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer Timothy who lives but Christ lives through Him. His life is not driven by what He feels but what God desires. He wants not his will, but God’s will to be done. Timothy also has a proven character. Paul reminds the Philippians that they have seen Timothy be faithful. If you read through Acts, you will find times when Timothy has been faithful to stay and minister in a certain place when Paul had to leave. He is willing to do the difficult things that God calls him to. He also sat faithfully under Paul to learn from him just as a son would sit under a father to learn his trade. Timothy desires the things of God and kept his focus there.
The second life we can learn from in these passages is Epaphroditus. Paul gives Epaphroditus several titles that teach us about who he is. First, Paul calls him his brother. We know that this means that Epaphroditus is a believer, but Paul also uses the word “my”, showing us that they had a close relationship. We can see that Epaphroditus was willing to risk his life for the opportunity to help and encourage Paul. Because Paul was under house arrest at the time he wrote this letter, then we know that Epaphroditus was at risk by caring for Paul’s needs. If Rome decided at any time to execute Paul, then they would likely also kill or arrest any of his associates. Epaphroditus was a good friend who was willing to look out for his own needs last. Paul also called Epaphroditus a fellow worker. This meant that Epaphroditus’ focus was like Paul’s. They both desired for the gospel to reach all peoples for the glory of God. Their life verse may have been Acts 20:24- “I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.” Further, Paul described Epaphroditus as a fellow soldier. He understood that they were in a spiritual battle. He recognized the risk and was willing to take it because He knew God is bigger. Finally, Epaphroditus was identified as the Philippian’s messenger. He was sent to meet Paul’s needs because he was willing, trustworthy, and courageous.
As you can see, we have much to learn from these two men. We need to evaluate our own lives. Where is our focus? Are we single minded about God’s will? If we are, then we will be willing to look to the needs of others before our own. For us to be the friend, family member, co-worker, student, employee, etc… that God has called us to be, we must look to the needs of others first. We must also be focused on the interests of Christ if we are going to be aware of and take the opportunity to share Him with others. When we set aside our own agendas, fears, and comforts and are willing, God will use us to minister for His glory. This is truly where abundant life is- when we get over ourselves and experience the fullness of knowing God. Timothy and Epaphroditus seem to have figured it out. Let’s follow their example as they followed the example of Christ.
--Jennifer Jones, Discipleship Manager
The second life we can learn from in these passages is Epaphroditus. Paul gives Epaphroditus several titles that teach us about who he is. First, Paul calls him his brother. We know that this means that Epaphroditus is a believer, but Paul also uses the word “my”, showing us that they had a close relationship. We can see that Epaphroditus was willing to risk his life for the opportunity to help and encourage Paul. Because Paul was under house arrest at the time he wrote this letter, then we know that Epaphroditus was at risk by caring for Paul’s needs. If Rome decided at any time to execute Paul, then they would likely also kill or arrest any of his associates. Epaphroditus was a good friend who was willing to look out for his own needs last. Paul also called Epaphroditus a fellow worker. This meant that Epaphroditus’ focus was like Paul’s. They both desired for the gospel to reach all peoples for the glory of God. Their life verse may have been Acts 20:24- “I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.” Further, Paul described Epaphroditus as a fellow soldier. He understood that they were in a spiritual battle. He recognized the risk and was willing to take it because He knew God is bigger. Finally, Epaphroditus was identified as the Philippian’s messenger. He was sent to meet Paul’s needs because he was willing, trustworthy, and courageous.
As you can see, we have much to learn from these two men. We need to evaluate our own lives. Where is our focus? Are we single minded about God’s will? If we are, then we will be willing to look to the needs of others before our own. For us to be the friend, family member, co-worker, student, employee, etc… that God has called us to be, we must look to the needs of others first. We must also be focused on the interests of Christ if we are going to be aware of and take the opportunity to share Him with others. When we set aside our own agendas, fears, and comforts and are willing, God will use us to minister for His glory. This is truly where abundant life is- when we get over ourselves and experience the fullness of knowing God. Timothy and Epaphroditus seem to have figured it out. Let’s follow their example as they followed the example of Christ.
--Jennifer Jones, Discipleship Manager
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Philippians 2:12-18
The passage prior to this one discusses the perfect example that Christ has set and how we should desire to strive to follow it. So, when we read “therefore” in verse 12, we can think “because of the example Christ left for us, we can follow it by…”. Go ahead and plug it into that passage. We can follow by being obedient consistently out of our love for Him, and all the while “work out our salvation with fear and trembling”. This is one of the main phrases that stuck out to me in the passage. It is a popular one, of course. Preachers talk about it on Sundays, your leaders mention it at Bible studies, and here I am talking about it too. I wish I could have a picture of what it looks like to work out my salvation with fear and trembling, but I don’t and might not ever truly have one. As for now, this is what I think is an important part of working out our salvation: Verse 14 says to do everything without complaining. Being discontent with the portion God has given could come close to unbelief. Unbelief that He might be incapable of…well, you name it. When there is unbelief it is more difficult to please God (Heb 11:6) and it is more difficult to act in a way that pleases Him. Second, arguing debatable points can sometimes lead to more harm than “showing someone the truth”. Verse 15 says we are becoming blameless as we strive to avoid complaining and arguing. Beyond reproach is my favorite way of putting it. That means to be without shame, at all. Because of God we are able to be that way. I love it. This leads to shining in a dark place and in this we should rejoice along with Paul. So, our part is to work out. God’s part, which He will do and does always, is to work in.
--Kristi Smith, Assitant Summer Camp Director
--Kristi Smith, Assitant Summer Camp Director
Monday, September 29, 2008
Philippians 2:1-11
Really I don’t feel like I need to write much at all for these verses this week. Paul is very straight forward, and throws some very heavy stuff at us. Many times while reading through these verses I have felt a weight attached to them – a burden, if you will, to be perfect like Christ – if you feel like that at all skip ahead to verse 13 and take solace in that. But I want us to focus on one thing for this study. I want us to look at a command that Paul gives us: “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus”.
Before we start looking at the next few verses, or trying to think of things we can do to make this happen, we need to look at what affects our attitude. Obviously there are a number of things that make us feel a certain way and have a particular attitude. Some simple examples are: the weather, people around us, our family upbringing, and our thoughts. If you think about these or other examples you can come to the conclusion that some of the factors cannot be changed by us, but others we can do something about. For example, I can’t change the weather, but I can choose the friends I spend time with. I can’t change who my parents are, but I can choose what I fill my mind with. So to conclude, our attitude is directly affected by the decisions we make in our everyday life. Take a moment to think about some things that you can easily change in your life to help you have a more Christ like attitude right now.
These things are all great ways to take steps toward bettering our attitude; steps towards having the same attitude as Christ. Every day we need to strive to make good choices that will lead us to a more Christ like attitude – one that serves others and is less selfish. We need to do everything we can to push forward and train ourselves to seek perfection.
But although these small steps and small actions can help a little, we still need to face the hard reality of truth . . . you can’t do it. No matter what you change, no matter how many good friends you have, no matter how hard you try, you will never have the same attitude that Christ had. You can’t do it. You were born with a very selfish nature, and as much as you’d like to think you can be selfless and change the world, you can’t. So if you haven’t already, I need you to read a little further in Philippians 2 and look at verses 12 and 13. “Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose.” Here Paul tells us that we need to continue to seek out the Lord. But he also gives us comfort by telling us that God works in us to produce results. It’s hard to think that we are unable, but it is amazing to remember that He is doing all the hard work for us.
Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place
and gave Him the name that is above every name,
that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.
--Seth Gordon, Recreation Director
Before we start looking at the next few verses, or trying to think of things we can do to make this happen, we need to look at what affects our attitude. Obviously there are a number of things that make us feel a certain way and have a particular attitude. Some simple examples are: the weather, people around us, our family upbringing, and our thoughts. If you think about these or other examples you can come to the conclusion that some of the factors cannot be changed by us, but others we can do something about. For example, I can’t change the weather, but I can choose the friends I spend time with. I can’t change who my parents are, but I can choose what I fill my mind with. So to conclude, our attitude is directly affected by the decisions we make in our everyday life. Take a moment to think about some things that you can easily change in your life to help you have a more Christ like attitude right now.
These things are all great ways to take steps toward bettering our attitude; steps towards having the same attitude as Christ. Every day we need to strive to make good choices that will lead us to a more Christ like attitude – one that serves others and is less selfish. We need to do everything we can to push forward and train ourselves to seek perfection.
But although these small steps and small actions can help a little, we still need to face the hard reality of truth . . . you can’t do it. No matter what you change, no matter how many good friends you have, no matter how hard you try, you will never have the same attitude that Christ had. You can’t do it. You were born with a very selfish nature, and as much as you’d like to think you can be selfless and change the world, you can’t. So if you haven’t already, I need you to read a little further in Philippians 2 and look at verses 12 and 13. “Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose.” Here Paul tells us that we need to continue to seek out the Lord. But he also gives us comfort by telling us that God works in us to produce results. It’s hard to think that we are unable, but it is amazing to remember that He is doing all the hard work for us.
Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place
and gave Him the name that is above every name,
that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.
--Seth Gordon, Recreation Director
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Philippians 1:12-30
This is a big passage. It contains lots of phrases that sound familiar and that we have all heard in sermons… ‘preaching Christ out of envy’, ‘to live is Christ and to die is gain’, ‘conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ’… I decided that instead of trying to cover it all, we’d look at one verse that jumped out at me.
Philippians 1:23 – But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better.
Paul is writing from prison and has been talking about how he wins either way – by continuing in fruitful labor for the cause of Christ, or by dying in prison and going to be with the Lord. At least on the surface we would all agree with the thought that leaving this life and being in the presence of God is going to be a good deal… when it happens. We think of it as an eventuality, as something that is so far off, it’s not really worth thinking about. But Paul was genuinely torn.
Let’s conduct a little experiment. What’s the best thing that could happen in your life right now? Don’t hold back, don’t even be realistic – the BEST thing – the dream job, the engagement ring, the approval of a parent, a vision of a happy, healthy future… whatever it is, think on it for a minute. Let yourself feel some of the emotion that would come with the realization that the BEST thing that you could dream of has happened. Now, go back and read verse 23 – and be with Christ, for that is very much better. I like how the New American Standard even uses language that sounds like a little kid. It’s not just better, it is very much better. Yes, Paul was talking about physical death and seeing Christ face-to-face (which he had already gotten to do once on the road to Damascus), but let’s apply the concept to our daily lives. Are there things of this world that we look so forward to or work so hard on that we lose sight of what is very much better? Being with Christ ought to be the thing that just does it for us – it should move us out of bed and into His presence each morning and the effects of being with Him should motivate our actions and permeate our conversations – for HE is very much better than anything in this world.
--Natalie West, Summer Camp Director
Philippians 1:23 – But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better.
Paul is writing from prison and has been talking about how he wins either way – by continuing in fruitful labor for the cause of Christ, or by dying in prison and going to be with the Lord. At least on the surface we would all agree with the thought that leaving this life and being in the presence of God is going to be a good deal… when it happens. We think of it as an eventuality, as something that is so far off, it’s not really worth thinking about. But Paul was genuinely torn.
Let’s conduct a little experiment. What’s the best thing that could happen in your life right now? Don’t hold back, don’t even be realistic – the BEST thing – the dream job, the engagement ring, the approval of a parent, a vision of a happy, healthy future… whatever it is, think on it for a minute. Let yourself feel some of the emotion that would come with the realization that the BEST thing that you could dream of has happened. Now, go back and read verse 23 – and be with Christ, for that is very much better. I like how the New American Standard even uses language that sounds like a little kid. It’s not just better, it is very much better. Yes, Paul was talking about physical death and seeing Christ face-to-face (which he had already gotten to do once on the road to Damascus), but let’s apply the concept to our daily lives. Are there things of this world that we look so forward to or work so hard on that we lose sight of what is very much better? Being with Christ ought to be the thing that just does it for us – it should move us out of bed and into His presence each morning and the effects of being with Him should motivate our actions and permeate our conversations – for HE is very much better than anything in this world.
--Natalie West, Summer Camp Director
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Philippians 1:1-11
We are covering the book of Philippians and Malachi this semester. I am looking forward to our study together. Today, we will look at Philippians 1:1-11. After an initial reading, we may think this is only the introduction to the book and not take much time to mediate on what God has to say to us. We know that scripture is God breathed, so God has a reason for each word that was written. I encourage you to read through this passage several times and ask God to show you what He wants to teach you.
Paul starts the book by describing himself and Timothy as servants of Christ. The Greek word for servant is doulos meaning bond slave. Paul recognized that God was His master and that he was totally dependent on Him. As we read in Acts 20:24, Paul counted his life worth nothing to himself. Paul only wanted to do what would please His master. Paul had a great deal of credentials that he could have reminded the Philippians of, but instead, he started this letter to all believers with humility.
Paul then continues to tell the Philippians how thankful he is to God for them. He remembers them and finds joy. This is truly remarkable as Paul was in a dire situation as he wrote the letter to the Philippians. He was in prison where he had little food and the conditions where very dirty. Paul and the other prisoners had to use the restroom on the ground of their prison cells. He probably had chains around his ankles and maybe even wrists that were rubbing his skin and causing sores. These sores were not likely treated with medicine. Paul’s circumstances were very difficult yet Paul speaks of joy. He made the choice to focus not on the challenges around him but on those things that brought him joy.
The Philippians brought joy to Paul for several reasons. He was driven to pray for the Philippians, so this brought him before the throne of God. Paul knew that he could always find joy there. Also, Paul could see God’s work in the Philippians. The Holy Spirit prompted Paul to focus on the goodness and success of others. This does not mean that Paul overlooked those things in others that were drawing them away from their relationship with Christ. He was not hesitant to correct others when needed, but he chose to recognize how God’s amazing grace is sufficient. He knew God would complete His work in them. He was not jealous of other believer’s victories. He praised God for the victories. Further, Paul simply enjoyed other believers. He longed for them with the affection of Christ. Paul truly loved God, so he loved his brothers and sisters in Christ. The fellowship that he remembered with the Philippians warmed his heart.
Paul not only found joy in the Philippians and all believers, but he desired for them to grow in their relationship with Christ. Paul’s passion for their spiritual development is evident as we look at Paul’s prayer for the Philippians. He prayed for five things that we should also desire in our lives. These qualities also seem to build upon themselves. Paul prays for love, spiritual excellence, blameless lives, fruitful lives, and God to be glorified in them. Paul prays for believer’s love to abound because as we are filled with God’s love we are driven to obedience and a life of spiritual excellence. When we follow God’s will then we will live a blameless and pure life. When we are without stumbling or offense, then our lives will be characterized by good works. John 15:8 says that God is glorified when we bear much fruit.
Paul sets an amazing example for us in humility, joy, and prayer. May we also recognize our dependence on God, so that we can find joy in the midst of any circumstance. We need to choose to remember those things that are loving, excellent, and praise worthy. Let us also pray for this spiritual development in our lives and other believer’s lives for the glory of God.
--Jennifer Jones, Discipleship Manager
Paul starts the book by describing himself and Timothy as servants of Christ. The Greek word for servant is doulos meaning bond slave. Paul recognized that God was His master and that he was totally dependent on Him. As we read in Acts 20:24, Paul counted his life worth nothing to himself. Paul only wanted to do what would please His master. Paul had a great deal of credentials that he could have reminded the Philippians of, but instead, he started this letter to all believers with humility.
Paul then continues to tell the Philippians how thankful he is to God for them. He remembers them and finds joy. This is truly remarkable as Paul was in a dire situation as he wrote the letter to the Philippians. He was in prison where he had little food and the conditions where very dirty. Paul and the other prisoners had to use the restroom on the ground of their prison cells. He probably had chains around his ankles and maybe even wrists that were rubbing his skin and causing sores. These sores were not likely treated with medicine. Paul’s circumstances were very difficult yet Paul speaks of joy. He made the choice to focus not on the challenges around him but on those things that brought him joy.
The Philippians brought joy to Paul for several reasons. He was driven to pray for the Philippians, so this brought him before the throne of God. Paul knew that he could always find joy there. Also, Paul could see God’s work in the Philippians. The Holy Spirit prompted Paul to focus on the goodness and success of others. This does not mean that Paul overlooked those things in others that were drawing them away from their relationship with Christ. He was not hesitant to correct others when needed, but he chose to recognize how God’s amazing grace is sufficient. He knew God would complete His work in them. He was not jealous of other believer’s victories. He praised God for the victories. Further, Paul simply enjoyed other believers. He longed for them with the affection of Christ. Paul truly loved God, so he loved his brothers and sisters in Christ. The fellowship that he remembered with the Philippians warmed his heart.
Paul not only found joy in the Philippians and all believers, but he desired for them to grow in their relationship with Christ. Paul’s passion for their spiritual development is evident as we look at Paul’s prayer for the Philippians. He prayed for five things that we should also desire in our lives. These qualities also seem to build upon themselves. Paul prays for love, spiritual excellence, blameless lives, fruitful lives, and God to be glorified in them. Paul prays for believer’s love to abound because as we are filled with God’s love we are driven to obedience and a life of spiritual excellence. When we follow God’s will then we will live a blameless and pure life. When we are without stumbling or offense, then our lives will be characterized by good works. John 15:8 says that God is glorified when we bear much fruit.
Paul sets an amazing example for us in humility, joy, and prayer. May we also recognize our dependence on God, so that we can find joy in the midst of any circumstance. We need to choose to remember those things that are loving, excellent, and praise worthy. Let us also pray for this spiritual development in our lives and other believer’s lives for the glory of God.
--Jennifer Jones, Discipleship Manager
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