All Together

 

All Together

Philippians 2: Your life in Christ makes you strong, and his love comforts you. You have fellowship with the Spirit, and you have kindness and compassion for one another. ² I urge you, then, to make me completely happy by having the same thoughts, sharing the same love, and being one in soul and mind. 

 

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When a car was stuck in the snow, the remedy was to “rock it out.” I and others volunteered to help. Some got in the front, some in the back. When a person yelled “Push!”, we all began to push. The car went nowhere. Turns out we were supposed to push from the front, then the back to create a “rocking” motion. And, to top it off, the driver had his foot on the brake.

 

• I felt I was strong and wanted to help.
• I was doing my part as an individual but things were still not quite right.
• I was part of a group, but we were not united in what we were supposed to be doing.

 

Paul compliments those who have dedicated their lives to CHRIST. He noticed their reliance on the LORD, their kindness and compassion. He then urged the group to take it to another level. Be united in love, soul and mind.

 

My Observations

• It is easy for me to love CHRIST alone, but harder to fit into many different styles.
• It is easy for me to be comforted by the HOLY SPIRIT, but harder to share the same love GOD wants me to have with others.
• It is easy for me to have kindness and compassion for others, but harder for me to be one in CHRIST in “soul and mind.”

 

Unity is highly important to GOD. I mean, HE even said the greatest commandment is to “Love one another.” Unfortunately, like the car stuck in the snow example, we get together, meaning well, and start doing things as individuals. Our individual efforts sometimes work against the overall goal.

 

BUT GOD has a remedy. “Have the same thoughts, share the same love, and be one in soul and mind.” Easy? No! But fortunately there is a starting point, namely JESUS. The world has many answers that are temporary or done with hidden motives. GOD wants me to take the step to unify with groups that do not look or act like me. It is hard, but I am glad GOD appreciates it.

 

Challenge

• What compliments do you notice in this passage?
• Can you identify with some or all of these encouraging words?
• Will you seek to take the next step by figuring out how to unify in CHRIST without making other people follow your thinking today?

Facing Fears

Facing Fears

Philippians 1: ²⁸ Don't be afraid of your enemies; always be courageous, and this will prove to them that they will lose and that you will win, because it is God who gives you the victory. ²⁹ For you have been given the privilege of serving Christ, not only by believing in him, but also by suffering for him. ³⁰ Now you can take part with me in the battle. It is the same battle you saw me fighting in the past, and as you hear, the one I am fighting still.

 

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Having no money, no title and no direction, I felt free to face the future. “Anywhere I go is better than where I am now” I groused. I was not afraid to try new things or go new places. But when I got a little money and a title and was leading the direction, I worried about “my” family and “my” stuff and “my” security. “What about the future?” I now asked.

 

• I had become full of fear.
• I had become blinded into thinking “I” was in control of “my” destiny.
• I had become so busy trying to fight for what I had, that I was willing to step away from the true battle.

 

Paul says some difficult words. “Don’t be afraid.” He says these unpopular words to everyone, then follow them up with even worse words. “Suffering for HIM.” He equated the suffering believers go through as partaking in a little of what CHRIST went through.

 

My Observations

• Fear will take me away from serving CHRIST fully, BUT GOD allows circumstances in my life that keep me praying for HIS help.
• Fear makes me make selfish decisions, BUT GOD wants me to be courageous enough to believe in HIS power, even if it means suffering.
• Fear is only one tactic the enemy uses, BUT GOD has already won the victory and has included me in it.

 

Many questions run through my mind that add fear to my countenance. “What will happen in the future?” or “What if I get sick or hurt?” or “How much money is enough to live it up until I die?” These and other questions make me make decisions that can sometimes seem courageous to the world, but in reality, can be detrimental to me.

 

GOD holds the future, the present and the past. HE owns everything and is all powerful. HE has given all authority to JESUS, who was raised from the dead. Believing in JESUS is great, but being willing to give up fears to keep pressing towards HIS direction, keeps me in the spiritual battle. I am glad GOD helps me face my fears to keep fighting for HIM.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer gives this stern warning?
• What spiritual enemies do you have?
• Have you ever been discouraged, distraught or disillusioned enough to want to give up on GOD?
• Will you be “courageous”, knowing that GOD has given you the victory even when it does not feel like it?

Reputation

Reputation

Philippians 1: ²⁷ Now, the important thing is that your way of life should be as the gospel of Christ requires, so that, whether or not I am able to go and see you, I will hear that you are standing firm with one common purpose and that with only one desire you are fighting together for the faith of the gospel. 

 

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Trying to fit in was not easy. It seemed like the “in” crowd had a mysterious criteria that I never could meet. I decided to do what “they” were doing so I could be accepted. Maybe I could get a “good” reputation by being in the right crowd..

 

• I wanted to be known by association.
• I wanted to be part of a group who other people admired.
• I wanted to be seen as I saw other people.

 

Paul wanted to see the people he wrote to. He knew everyone would act “nice”  in his presence, but what about when he was not there? He gives everyone instructions to live “as the Gospel requires” whether he was there or not.

 

My Observations

• Character is what GOD looks at in me.
• GOD sees what I do when I am alone, or in a crowd.
• My heart will shape my reputation.

 

“Standing firm” and “fighting together for the faith of the gospel” are two important elements of a reputation GOD wants me to have. I mean, the “in” crowd may have a reputation that is counter to the faith in CHRIST at times and other times it aligns with it. This wavering is not “firm.”

 

Each day the world throws another challenge that faith in GOD could easily solve. Unfortunately, reputations become more important than serving HIM and praising HIM in public. GOD wants my reputation to be aligned with HIS so others may know I serve HIM. I am glad to give up a popular reputation and to be known as a servant of GOD.

 

Challenge

• What is the way of life the writer is speaking of?
• Have you ever heard “your reputation proceeds you?”
• What kind of reputation would you like to have?
• Will you serve CHRIST sincerely so others may know HIM through you today?

Living It Up

 

Living It Up

Philippians 1: ²¹ For what is life? To me, it is Christ. Death, then, will bring more. ²² But if by continuing to live I can do more worthwhile work, then I am not sure which I should choose. ²³ I am pulled in two directions. I want very much to leave this life and be with Christ, which is a far better thing; ²⁴ but for your sake it is much more important that I remain alive. ²⁵ I am sure of this, and so I know that I will stay. I will stay on with you all, to add to your progress and joy in the faith, ²⁶ so that when I am with you again, you will have even more reason to be proud of me in your life in union with Christ Jesus.

 

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“You haven’t lived until you’ve ridden our roller coaster” was the ad that made me curious. Up until then, my life was mundane, but this rollercoaster ride will solve everything. The same was said about vacation spots, cars and other experiences.

 

• I was told what living was all about from sales people.
• I was jealous over pictures of people who seemed to be having “fun.”
• I thought “living” was indulging in as much of what the world had to offer, with no limits.

 

Paul addresses “life” and “death” from the perspective of “purpose.” To the world, Paul would look like a failure. He was a criminal who was despised by churchy people. He dedicated his entire life to preach the message of CHRIST. This made life worth living.

 

My Observations

• Life with CHRIST as a purpose, leaves me not wanting or missing anything.
• Life to GOD is me having the pursuit of bringing HIS creations back to HIM.
• Life is more than what the world has to offer.

 

Having things or going places is not a problem when it is not the only pursuit in life, I mean, it is okay to go on a vacation or buy stuff, but when I get nervous that I cannot buy more stuff, or when most of my thinking is guided by living for more of the “world” I reduce living to see people come to the saving knowledge of JESUS.

 

My blinders cause worry which can lead to thinking no one loves me, not even GOD, when things are going wrong. Mental and physical pain can sometimes grow to the point where I cry out, “Just take me!” BUT GOD is merciful and wants me to stay for HIS purpose. I gladly serve GOD with vigor and determination.

 

Challenge

• What state of mind do you think the writer is in?
• Have you ever felt like giving up on life because things are not going your way?
• Will you know that GOD loves you dearly and that you were made unique to reach specific people only you can reach for CHRIST?
• Will you live your life with purpose that extends beyond the things of this world today?

Courage for Duty

 

Courage for Duty

Philippians 1: ²⁰ My deep desire and hope is that I shall never fail in my duty, but that at all times, and especially right now, I shall be full of courage, so that with my whole being I shall bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die.

 

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“Why are you doing that?” some people questioned. “You could get sick or even die” was the escalated statement that made me nervous, but I felt led to go on the missions trip anyway.

 

• Going someplace outside my comfort zone did not make sense.
• Leaving a place where everything was alright seemed counterintuitive.
• Doing difficult things for GOD instead of easy things for myself seemed out of the ordinary.

 

Paul gave up everything to serve GOD. He had status, power and was probably very wealthy being a Pharisee of Pharisees. JESUS changed his life and now his deepest desire was to carry out the duties that bring honor to CHRIST.

 

My Observations

• Life serving GOD can get scary, especially when the evil one presents alternatives.
• Unknown paths look fearful BUT GOD wants me to walk with HIM down them.
• Faithful service may sometimes seem fruitless, BUT GOD wants me to have courage to continue.

 

“Keep going” are words that seem hard to do sometimes. I mean, when I feel “discouraged” I want to give up. Problem after problem after problem makes me think there is no relief in sight. BUT GOD says “Be strong and of good courage.”

 

GOD knows the future and HE knows why HE has me serving HIM. HE sees the adversary and has taken his tactics into account. No matter what happens, GOD wants me to keep my sense of duty to HIM. I gladly serve GOD, because I have no other place that provides refuge like HIM.

 

Challenge

• What is the writer’s duty?
• Have you ever been led to serve GOD even though it may seem scary?
• Will you be “encouraged” to have “courage” to keep going so your service my “bring honor to CHRIST” today?

No Need to Argue

No Need to Argue

Philippians 1: ¹⁵ Of course some of them preach Christ because they are jealous and quarrelsome, but others from genuine good will. ¹⁶ These do so from love, because they know that God has given me the work of defending the gospel. ¹⁷ The others do not proclaim Christ sincerely, but from a spirit of selfish ambition; they think that they will make more trouble for me while I am in prison.

 

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“Did you see the email!?” I said to a friend in an offended way. There was a scripture mention that raised a huge debate. We went back and forth, adding point and counterpoint. To this day, I do not know what we argued over, and now I don’t even remember the guy’s name.

 

• I was offended easily when I heard something that did not align to “my” thinking..
• I was ready to “argue” about scripture.
• I was a self-proclaimed defender of the scriptures.

 

Paul addressed a touchy subject, namely motive of speaking about JESUS. Some people saw Paul was getting attention and, out of jealousy, spoke the name of JESUS too. Combative quarrelsome motive with the ambition to be noticed or right made more trouble than peace.

 

My Observations

• Love is the motive GOD wants me to have in my relationship with HIM.
• Peace is the offering GOD wants me to give to HIS creation.
• Joy is what GOD wants me to carry during troubled times so others can come to HIM in spite of their circumstance.

 

Fighting over who is right about GOD is futile. I mean, not one of us is right about GOD. There is no one who seeks HIM. BUT GOD did something amazing. HE sought us. HE became a human, died for us and was raised from the dead. I’m talking about JESUS. HE did not do this to cause fights about HIM, rather because HE loved us dearly.

 

Unfortunately, HE knew HIS message of love would split families, communities and churches. Arguments, jealousy and bitterness grows, BUT so does HIS love. GOD’s grace is sufficient and HIS anger is slow. I am grateful GOD is patient with me and gives me a chance to drop my combative spirit.

 

Challenge

• What reasons does the writer give for speaking about CHRIST?
• Have you ever argued over what someone else said or did?
• How are you proclaiming the message of CHRIST?
• Will you be the one who brings GOD’s peace and love to places that contain quarrels and combativeness today?

Unstoppable Effectiveness

Unstoppable Effectiveness

Philippians 1: ¹² I want you to know, my friends, that the things that have happened to me have really helped the progress of the gospel. ¹³ As a result, the whole palace guard and all the others here know that I am in prison because I am a servant of Christ. ¹⁴ And my being in prison has given most of the believers more confidence in the Lord, so that they grow bolder all the time to preach the message fearlessly.

 

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Being at a church that boasted about diversity, I was led to speak about the misuse of rules and race to keep people blinded. I said it in one statement. “Must do’s and skin hues equals bad news” regarding decision making. I then said “JESUS does not look at the outside but the inside.” That was the last time I was allowed to speak.

 

• I was not allowed to speak, but it did not stop me from speaking.
• I was not allowed to communicate, but it did not stop me from communicating.
• I was not allowed to deliver the message of salvation, but it did not stop me from delivering the message of salvation.

 

Paul was jailed by the church leaders. They had the power and the connections to silence who they saw fit. But Paul could not be silenced. GOD had appointed Paul to speak boldly for and about HIM, no matter where he was. He did so and it was effective.

 

My Observations

• No matter where I am, GOD wants me to carry HIS name before me.
• No matter what circumstance I am in, GOD wants me to remember that I am a spokesperson for HIM.
• No matter who is trying to suppress GOD’s message of love and salvation, HE wants me to continue to be bold .

 

Slander, canceled platforms, power moves and other manipulation cannot stop GOD’s word from being spread. I mean, after self-examination, asking GOD for forgiveness, a change of heart for people and asking GOD for HIS words, I should feel ready to speak. But there have been times when I felt embarrassed or fearful to speak about GOD.

 

When I got a title, I felt it inappropriate to be bold for GOD. When I was lusting in bars I felt the same way. GOD forgave me, picked me up and said “Go make disciples” to me anyway. HIS message cannot be stopped. I am glad HE can still use me even when I am broken or displaced.

 

Challenge

• What do you think the writer’s purpose is?
• Have you ever been removed, silenced or slandered and thought GOD can no longer use you?
• Will you speak boldly about JESUS no matter where you are today?

Directed Desires

Directed Desires

Philippians 1: ⁹ I pray that your love will keep on growing more and more, together with true knowledge and perfect judgment, ¹⁰ so that you will be able to choose what is best. Then you will be free from all impurity and blame on the Day of Christ. ¹¹ Your lives will be filled with the truly good qualities which only Jesus Christ can produce, for the glory and praise of God.

 

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“Become well rounded” was the confusing statement said to me. What does that mean? I pondered. To some it meant reading certain prose, to others it meant traveling to various places and to others it meant interacting with a variety of people. But something was missing from the approaches when I tried them.

 

• I wanted to fit in.
• I wanted to protect myself.
• I wanted to “get ahead” and “be successful.”

 

Paul’s prayer for everyone concludes with a statement on becoming “well rounded” in a very strange way. Love is the foundation coupled with true knowledge, coupled with perfect judgment. Humans can try to claim these important gifts, but they only can come from one place, namely JESUS CHRIST.

 

My Observations

• To keep my hatred at bay, I must grow in the love of JESUS.
• To keep my thoughts aligned, I must learn about my Savior.
• To keep my lustful, sinful decisions to a minimum, I must use the judgment of CHRIST, which is perfect.

 

Following humans seems to lead to a person or group being superior. I mean, many discussions about how someone did something wrong and that other person did something right, makes us try to emulate who we want to follow. BUT GOD wants HIS SON to be the focus of the picture.

 

All of my choices should be run through three filters, love, true knowledge and perfect judgment, none of which I, or any other human contain. Only JESUS has love that is pure and knowledge that is not tainted and judgment that is perfect. HIS example is the model for me to follow. I am glad HE keeps me growing “more and more” each day.

 

Challenge

• How does the writer suggest approaching decisions?
• Have you ever looked back at times you did not use the best judgment?
• Will you keep growing in GOD’s “love” for other people and seek learning about HIM and use HIS judgment which is made perfect through JESUS CHRIST today?

Transposed Heart

Transposed Heart

Philippians 1: ⁷ You are always in my heart! And so it is only right for me to feel as I do about you. For you have all shared with me in this privilege that God has given me, both now that I am in prison and also while I was free to defend the gospel and establish it firmly. ⁸ God is my witness that I tell the truth when I say that my deep feeling for you all comes from the heart of Christ Jesus himself.

 

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Speeding down the expressway, I was making “good” time. I prided myself on driving fast without endangering slowpokes around me. As traffic slowed up ahead, I did the same. But before I could get near to the car in front of me, another car darted in. This made me mad. The darter then took off on the shoulder and weaved dangerously through traffic with numerous near misses.

 

• I hoped to see him or her in an accident!
• I wanted the worst to happen to the driver to teach him or her a lesson.
• I looked intently to see if there was a wreck that included the darter and was slightly disappointed when I did not.

 

Paul expresses his deep gratitude for those who helped him spread the Gospel of JESUS. Their loyalty to GOD was shown whether Paul was in prison or free. This only came because Saul, now Paul, had a change of heart.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to give HIM my heart so HE can change it.
• Slow to anger, and quick to forgive are traits GOD has and wants me to mimic.
• Seeing someone else’s purpose in GOD is HIS desire for me.

 

Being excited about someone who is excited for GOD is what I am supposed to do. I mean, rather than complain about how he or she said something wrong or sang something out of tune or did not give, GOD wants me excited that he or she has accepted CHRIST as the Savior.

 

With this excitement, I should have no complaints. Unfortunately, like the darting driver, I wanted to see people “get theirs.” BUT GOD has way too much grace for that. HE allows him or her to sin, thinking they got away with it. HE also sees my calloused heart and forgives that too. HE says “MY grace is sufficient” and means it. I am glad the HOLY SPIRIT gives me a new heart daily.

 

Challenge

• What is the heart of the writer?
• Have you ever been upset at someone and wanted him or her to fail?
• Will you ask GOD to change your heart versus trying to get HIM to change “that” person today?

Finished What Was Started

Finished What Was Started

Philippians 1: ⁶ And so I am sure that God, who began this good work in you, will carry it on until it is finished on the Day of Christ Jesus. 

 

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Another large obstacle felt daunting “again.” The first few obstacles seemed easy to overcome, but after days turned into months and months turned into years, another obstacle seemed harder to get over. Even small setbacks seemed large.

 

• I felt like giving up when I was faced with an obstacle that would take time to get over.
• I wanted to stop trying when others walked away.
• I considered letting go when I did not see measurable results the world was expecting.

 

Paul slips in a word of encouragement that could easily be overlooked. New believers in JESUS may start off with zeal, but when life’s challenges get to them, many want to give up and fall away. BUT GOD sees something different.

 

My Observations

• It takes “faith” that only comes from GOD to keep going when the odds are against me.
• It takes “letting go” of things that belong to GOD so HE can remove the barriers to HIS plan.
• It takes “belief” that HIS plan includes me and my mistakes and my successes.

 

There are good days and bad days, successes and failures. Both live together. It’s when the bad days meet with my failures that make me want to give up. BUT GOD opens my eyes to something special. Reading the sentence without pointing to myself make me see that GOD has a plan that cannot be stopped.

 

“And I am sure that GOD”… “will carry it on until it is finished on the Day of CHRIST JESUS.” GOD will carry it on, not me. HE began the work in me and will finish HIS work with extreme success through me because HIS plans never fail. HE chose me with my weaknesses, frailties and faults to do HIS perfect plan. I am glad HE carries out HIS plan to the finish.

 

Challenge

• What is the writer sure about?
• What “good work” has GOD began in you?
• Have you ever felt like giving up?
• Will you continue to the end and allow GOD to carry the plan until it is finished?

Thankful For You

Thankful For You

Philippians 1: ³ I thank my God for you every time I think of you; ⁴ and every time I pray for you all, I pray with joy ⁵ because of the way in which you have helped me in the work of the gospel from the very first day until now. 

 

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On special days like Mother’s Day or Father’s Day, I thought of the many adopted parents and my parents who blessed me in ways I cannot imagine. I also am thankful for family and friends who remained and still remain very prayerful for every situation.

 

• I have been truly blessed.
• I have been supported by many who bow down to GOD.
• I have been able to spread the gospel because of many prayerful Spirit-filled people.

 

Paul expresses gratitude for the many people who supported his difficult journey. He is filled with elation every time he thought of those who helped him tell people about JESUS. His thankfulness was especially for those who hung in there from the very beginning of his transformed ministry.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to be thankful for those who have prayed for me.
• GOD wants me to praise people in front of HIM so many can be honored in HIS presence.
• GOD wants me to look back and remember those who serve HIM loyally.

 

There are some people who come to mind when I think of impactful belief in GOD, who have influenced me. I mean, ordinary people who stand firm for CHRIST at all costs. I see his or her fervor, never missing a beat when life gets difficult. In fact, these people turn up the encouragement when the struggles are happening.

 

How is this possible? I ask myself. The only thing that comes to mind is their relationship with CHRIST. I thank GOD for the many who continue to serve GOD in spite of the many obstacles placed in front of them.

 

Challenge

• Can you feel the sincerity of the writer regarding thankfulness?
• Doesn’t it sound like the writer has been through a lot and he was fully supported along the way?
• Who comes to mind that you are thankful for as he or she has stood firm in CHRIST and has fully supported you with prayer consistently?
• Will you fill your heart to overflowing with thankfulness to GOD today?

Heart Repair

Heart Repair

Philippians 1: From Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus—

To all God's people in Philippi who are in union with Christ Jesus, including the church leaders and helpers:

 

² May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.

 

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Just getting a job was my heart’s desire at one point. But after a period of working, it was not enough. I needed to move up in the company. The pay, while good at one point, was now not enough. The work seemed repetitive and the people wore me down. “Why do they always listen to that guy?” was my complaint.

 

• I was discontent
• I wanted more.
• I lost my thankfulness.

 

Paul and Timothy send greetings to everyone through a letter to the Philippians. The title they gave themselves was that of a “servant.”  Their desire was to bless everyone with grace and peace that only came from GOD.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to trade in my need to be on top to that of being on the bottom.
• GOD wants me to desire more for others than myself.
• GOD wants me to value being a servant more than being served.

 

Serving people is GOD’s highest honor. I mean, when I serve someone, the hole in my heart gets filled. Unfortunately, when I am serving people for my own personal gain, then it can wear on me, causing me to be discontent. I long for something else “better” than the role I am playing at the moment.

 

BUT GOD has a remedy. HE makes me a servant wherever I am. HE guides my mindset to giving others the best, knowing I am adding to a huge “reward” account HE is storing up for me. HE changes my view of something negative into seeing that I  am serving others because HE wants me to. I am glad GOD guides me to those HE wants me to serve.

 

Challenge

• What stands out to you in this opening greeting from the writers?
• Have you ever felt discontent even when your prayers have been answered?
• Will you receive GOD’s grace and peace today by taking a deep breath and serving others without expectations so HE will fill your heart with overflowing thanksgiving?

Sending Encouragement

Sending Encouragement

Ephesians 6: ²¹ Tychicus, our dear brother and faithful servant in the Lord's work, will give you all the news about me, so that you may know how I am getting along. ²² That is why I am sending him to you—to tell you how all of us are getting along and to encourage you.

 

²³ May God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give to all Christians peace and love with faith. ²⁴ May God's grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with undying love.

 

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Feeling pretty good, I walked into the group. I had a smile on my face for no reason. “What are you smiling about” a person groused at me. “Didn’t you hear the news?” People led into raising complaints about what was going on. By the end of the day, I felt like complaining.

 

• I was infected by negative words.
• I was pulled down by the current situation.
• I could not see the positive because all who were around me were negative.

 

Paul concludes his letter with encouragement. He sent a letter and Tychicus to encourage those who would read it. Some of the words in the letter may have been a bit harsh, and needed context. Paul wanted people to grow up and change, but was perceptive enough to know they needed encourage encouragement.

 

My Observations

• Peace and love are great gifts to give others because these belong to GOD to hand out freely.
• Grace is much needed and can be given in healthy portions according to GOD.
• Encouragement is part of my walk with GOD so I should give it when I can.

 

Sometimes walking with GOD seems like only taking medicine. I mean, it seems hard and full of stuff that I “need” to do versus “want” to do. BUT GOD wants more than a medicinal relationship. HE wants us to be encouraged when things are rough.

 

Sometimes I need encouragement, and sometimes I need to encourage others and there are times when I need to have the HOLY SPIRIT encourage me through HIS word. I am glad GOD encourages us to keep going. I encourage you and hope this message blesses you.

 

Challenge

• Do you feel the encouragement from the writer?
• Have you ever been encouraged by someone?
• Will you encourage someone to keep going with GOD today?

Pray, pray, pray, pray, pray!

Ephesians 6: ¹⁸ Do all this in prayer, asking for God's help. Pray on every occasion, as the Spirit leads. For this reason keep alert and never give up; pray always for all God's people. ¹⁹ And pray also for me, that God will give me a message when I am ready to speak, so that I may speak boldly and make known the gospel's secret. ²⁰ For the sake of this gospel I am an ambassador, though now I am in prison. Pray that I may be bold in speaking about the gospel as I should.

 

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Being on my own, I chose to stop praying. “What good is saying the LORD’s prayer anyway?” I said to myself. I wanted to just have “fun.” As things got worse and worse, I revisited prayer.

 

• I only prayed when I wanted something.
• I had stopped believing in prayer, because things were not going “my” way.
• I did not feel the need for prayer when I was in the middle of doing what “I” wanted to do.

 

Paul gives everyone several reasons to pray. He ties prayer to “building up your strength” and “Standing ready” as he mentioned earlier while urging us to put on the whole armor of GOD. Do all this in prayer.

 

My Observations

• Prayer helps me communicate with GOD to place my desires before HIM.
• Prayer guides me to a better place when led by the HOLY SPIRIT.
• Prayer gets other people involved to ask GOD to reveal HIS mighty power.

 

Usually prayer is the last resort when it should be the first. I mean, asking GOD for permission, direction and success seems like the right thing to do. Unfortunately, I have the tendency to start doing what “I” want to do and when it is a mess, ask GOD to fix it.

 

Prayer is a time to change “my” mind versus trying to get GOD to do something HE does not want to do. HE gracefully reveals the “gospel’s secret” and enables anyone who asks to become an ambassador for HIM. HIS SPIRIT shows me that HE can never be constrained. I am thankful GOD wants to communicate with me all day every day.

 

Challenge

• What different ways to pray do you see in the writers words?
• How is the SPIRIT leading you?
• Have you validated your desires by asking GOD “Is this what YOU want me to do?”
• Will you place every situation, thing and person, including yourself, before GOD in prayer today?

Protected

Protected

Ephesians 6: ¹⁶ At all times carry faith as a shield; for with it you will be able to put out all the burning arrows shot by the Evil One. ¹⁷ And accept salvation as a helmet, and the word of God as the sword which the Spirit gives you. 

 

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“Why is this happening?” has been the question I raised up to GOD many times. During several points in my life, it seemed like wave after wave after wave of calamity was happening. Peace could not be found.

 

• I was down.
• I felt like things were hopeless.
• I did not see any relief any time soon.

 

“Carry faith” was Paul’s analogy in the armor of GOD. He warns that the Evil One will try to attack everyone and a way to thwart the attack is through faith. He also gives us protection of the mind by belief in JESUS for salvation. He lastly provides the only weapon used in the armor of GOD, namely GOD’s word.

 

My Observations

• Despair, doubt and disappointments can be fought against with faith in the LORD.
• Fear, insecurity and uncertainty can be erased from my mind with salvation in JESUS.
• Lies, twisted words and manipulation can be destroyed with the Word of GOD.

 

Protection against the Evil One is highly important to GOD. HE knows we are simply sheep amongst wolves, so HE gives us a way to protect ourselves against a foe that seems relentless. Our fight is not against humans, rather against “wicked spiritual forces” according to the scripture.

 

Salvation keeps our minds clear and focused on the LORD. The world will keep coming up with things that can pollute our mind to turn away from GOD. Since our sin nature wants what it wants, GOD provided HIS word to guide our desires back in alignment with HIM. I am glad GOD gave me the whole armor to protect me daily.

 

Challenge

• When does the writer feel you should use faith as protection?
• Have you ever felt helpless, worried or overwhelmed?
• Will you seek GOD’s protection through faith in HIS power, belief in HIS SON and understanding of HIS word today?

Readiness

 

Readiness

Ephesians 6: ¹⁴ So stand ready, with truth as a belt tight around your waist, with righteousness as your breastplate, ¹⁵ and as your shoes the readiness to announce the Good News of peace.

 

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“Where is the rest of the presentation?” was the question that caught me by surprise. A senior leader was practicing and my part was incomplete. I had to make up something to keep the situation from boiling over. I blamed it on the technology and said I will try to “recover” it soon.

 

• I was not ready with the truth.
• I was not ready with what I was supposed to be doing.
• I was not ready to take on responsibility and I flew by the seat of my pants.

 

“Stand ready” were the words of inspiration Paul gave everyone. Life had become hard for many, and people were getting discouraged. They turned to exaggerations, faking it until they made it and would no longer speak about JESUS, rather their own pursuits.

 

My Observations

• Life’s situations can take me away from GOD’s truth when I am not ready.
• I will turn to ways that are unrighteous unless I get ready.
• My own pursuits, desires and dreams can keep me too busy to open my mouth for the “Good News of peace.”

 

“Stand ready” means I have gotten into a position where I am ready. I mean, I needed to have already changed my mind to serve GOD before life’s storms hit. When life comes at me, then I can “Stand ready” versus falling down.

 

GOD wants me to stay away from the world’s manipulations so I can accept HIS righteousness, and so HE can put me in places where I can speak the “Good News of peace.” I am glad GOD puts me on HIS path to “Stand Ready” versus getting ready someday.

 

Challenge

• What do you think the writer means by “readiness?”
• Is there another path to self-preservation in this passage?
• Will you protect yourself against life’s challenges by becoming more prepared to speak about the “Good News of peace” which is the salvation through belief in JESUS today?

Know It’s Coming

Ephesians 6: ¹⁰ Finally, build up your strength in union with the Lord and by means of his mighty power. ¹¹ Put on all the armor that God gives you, so that you will be able to stand up against the Devil's evil tricks. ¹² For we are not fighting against human beings but against the wicked spiritual forces in the heavenly world, the rulers, authorities, and cosmic powers of this dark age. ¹³ So put on God's armor now! Then when the evil day comes, you will be able to resist the enemy's attacks; and after fighting to the end, you will still hold your ground.

 

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After moving in the house and getting all the furniture situated, we finally settled in. It was summer, so we planted flowers. I was given a lawnmower so I could cut the grass. But then winter hit. The snow came and I found myself without a shovel.

 

• I was unprepared for the season.
• I was focused only on one season, but ill prepared for another.
• I was caught off guard and found it difficult to react to the season.

 

“Build up your strength” is Paul’s warning to everyone. He had personally suffered for the purpose of spreading the love of CHRIST. People twisting his love and devaluing his motive led to extreme actions that stemmed from Satanic attacks. There was a remedy.

 

My Observations

• Unite with the LORD is the first thing GOD wants me to do.
• Put on GOD’s armor is a step HE wants me to take to become prepared for the “Devil’s evil tricks.”
• Resist the enemy’s attacks is the part of the battle GOD wants me to participate in.

 

Prepare yourself is a tough statement to hear. I mean, it’s easier to fight things and people we cannot see. We try to make sense out of the world through labels so we can understand. But life is messy because of one being, namely Satan. He wants to trick people who are not prepared and attacks those who have grown weary.

 

BUT GOD is there to help. HE provides peace in the middle of the storm. When the focus is on GOD, the waves of life die down because of HIS mighty power. All issues must bow to GOD’s authority. I gladly put on HIS armor now!

 

Challenge

• What is the true fight the writer is speaking of?
• Have you grown weary of all the battles you have faced in life?
• Will you stop fighting with your own strength, thinking you can come up with the answer and allow GOD to heal your situation, knowing you may be attacked, yet will emerge through the fire victoriously!?

New Employer

New Employer

Ephesians 6: ⁵ Slaves, obey your human masters with fear and trembling; and do it with a sincere heart, as though you were serving Christ. ⁶ Do this not only when they are watching you, because you want to gain their approval; but with all your heart do what God wants, as slaves of Christ. ⁷ Do your work as slaves cheerfully, as though you served the Lord, and not merely human beings. ⁸ Remember that the Lord will reward each of us, whether slave or free, for the good work we do.

 

⁹ Masters, behave in the same way toward your slaves and stop using threats. Remember that you and your slaves belong to the same Master in heaven, who judges everyone by the same standard.

 

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Finding a bathroom that was seldom used, I went into a stall for a nap. It was a summer job and my responsibilities didn’t seem to matter. “So what if the copier was not full of paper?” I justified in my mind.

 

• I justified whatever action I wanted to do.
• I felt they would not miss me when I was goofing off.
• I still expected to be paid for the hours I was not working.

 

Paul addressed the workforce, which was no small topic. Some people had complaints about the work he or she was doing. Others complained about their employer. Some employers complained about their employees. Still others were taken into slavery against their will. What was the answer to this huge mess? Work for a new employer.

 

My Observations

• My mindset towards work should be focused on pleasing GOD.
• My zeal to be promoted should be tempered by doing what is pleasing to the LORD.
• My dislike for what I do for work should be filtered through GOD’s reward HE is storing up for me in heaven.

 

Involuntary slavery is abysmal and those who steal people for their personal gain should be reckoned with harshly by GOD. But what about voluntary slavery, also known as jobs? GOD wants employees and employers to see HIM in everything we do.

GOD is the answer to treating people fairly in the workforce. Unfortunately, inequity reigns supreme. A solution is to keep going by working for the LORD. HE sees when you are overlooked, underpaid and slighted. HE also sees when you take time and material for yourself that belongs to your employer, or when you mistreat employees. I am glad GOD “sees me” in all I do.

 

Challenge

• Is this passage hard to read?
• If you are an employee or an employer, what changes can you make based on your relationship to GOD?
• Will you seek equality and fairness, knowing GOD is watching and rewarding you for your attitude towards HIM versus trying to get ahead by pleasing humans today?

Obedience School

Obedience School

Ephesians 6: Children, it is your Christian duty to obey your parents, for this is the right thing to do. ² “Respect your father and mother” is the first commandment that has a promise added: ³ “so that all may go well with you, and you may live a long time in the land.”

 

⁴ Parents, do not treat your children in such a way as to make them angry. Instead, raise them with Christian discipline and instruction.

 

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“Get up and finish the work I told you to do” were the words both of my parents had to use on several occasions. I wants to sit around and take it easy, but they ‘always” seemed to have something to pick up, clean up or tear up.

 

• I grumbled.
• I murmured.
• I tried to convince them that I did not feel like doing whatever work they wanted me to do but had no other reason than, “I don’t feel like it.”

 

Family dynamics was a difficult topic that GOD wanted Paul to address. Honor, respect and obedience seemed like words of control to those who wanted to be wild and free. Dishonor, disrespect and disobedience had become the norm and needed a remedy.

 

My Observations

• GOD wanted me to learn how to obey as a child so I would later obey HIS strange, yet powerful ways.
• GOD wanted me to learn how to respect as a child so I would later respect HIS variety of creations that do not look or act like me.
• GOD wanted me to learn discipline from HIS word so I would have a basis from which I could make decisions.

 

Obedience, honor, respect, discipline and learning about GOD seem weak to those who want to be wild and free. I mean, I thought my parents just wanted workers versus children. I tried to manipulate the circumstance by thinking they weren’t expressing love by having me do chores. BUT GOD showed me my immaturity.

 

Looking back I can see how blessed I was to have parents who loved me enough to attempt to care for me, clothe me and feed me, all while trying to teach me about who GOD was to them. They also knew when to step back and allow me to with walk with GOD or choose “my” own way, even if it were destructive. I am grateful for my parents and understand more of what GOD is doing because of them.

 

Challenge

• What problems do you think the writer was trying to address?
• How can imperfect people provide instruction that works?
• Will you look at this passage from being a child or a parent so you can make adjustments that are pleasing to the LORD today?