Michael E. Wood
August 20, 2013
As the apostle Paul has finished with his introductory remarks
and his prayer of rejoicing with the encouragement to grow in love to the glory
and praise of God, there are a number of things which stand out as he begins
the body of his letter to the saints at Philippi .
May we learn the appropriate applications by the Spirit to
live out the truths which apply to the circumstance we find ourselves in.
1- Personal circumstance is no hindrance to the advancement
of the gospel.
a) The apostle Paul was not focused on what he could not do,
but focused on what he could do.
b) Though he was not in front of large crowds or churches,
he focused on witnessing to those who were immediately around him (i.e., the
Roman guards he was chained to for two years).
2- Jesus reigns over all circumstances of life and is seen
by faith by those who are His.
3- Never underestimate the testimony of the power of Christ
working through you as you patiently endure suffering.
4- The courage of one believer begets courage in other
believers. It is the fruit of the saints suffering.
a) The witness of the apostle was an encouragement for
others to witness.
5-Rejoicing in the power of Christ is an evidence and
manifestation of the work He accomplished on the cross.
Forgive me when my love
Does not excel and intercede
With prayer for other saints
Who suffer far and greater needs
Than I can now imagine with
My comforts and my pride
Which yet distract in moments
When I hear not what they cried.
Show mercy and love loyalty
To all You have in view,
For You alone are Judge of all
The hearts You have made new.
And give to them the measure of
Your grace that You know best,
Fits for each occasion of
Your children seeking rest.
In Christ alone give comfort
And the strength to burdens bear
Exactly as You measured
To display Your glory there,
In the midst of trials as
You make Your presence known
To show them that You love them
And You own them as Your own!
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