Old Friends

Old Friends

Philippians 4: ¹⁰ In my life in union with the Lord it is a great joy to me that after so long a time you once more had the chance of showing that you care for me. I don't mean that you had stopped caring for me—you just had no chance to show it. ¹¹ And I am not saying this because I feel neglected, for I have learned to be satisfied with what I have.

 

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Returning to the country, I was told things had changed in only two years. An evasive attitude of “self” had began to penetrate this once pristine group of people who would give their last when I met them before. But then I ran into a person I met before. He was warm and friendly. We picked up where we left off.

 

• I was thankful to see him.
• I was served by him and I felt welcome.
• I felt cared for, even though I had not been there in two years.

 

Paul expresses his joy over those who served him again after a long period of being apart. He was excited about their reason for serving him, namely their union with the LORD. He was not seeking to be served because he was satisfied with what he had. But it did feel great.

 

My Observations

• Old friends who are united because of CHRIST can pick up where they left off.
• Satisfaction with what I have can enable me to have joy with or without someone serving me.
• GOD wants me to care for those who pop in and out of my life.

 

“Friends of the road” is a term I heard years ago that meant we meet people who are fast friends, but drift apart as life goes on. This does not mean we did not care for one another, rather life’s circumstances may keep us from directly serving one another.

 

Whenever we reunite, GOD wants joy. HE loves when I pick up where we left off and express care for one another rather than disappointment. I am glad GOD gives me a path to be an old friend to those who come and go in and out of my life.

 

Challenge

• Can you hear the thankfulness of the writer?
• Have you ever reunited with someone who you could pick up where you left off?
• Are you satisfied with your life?
• Will you point your satisfaction in life to CHRIST to reduce expectations of others so joy can be the bond of your friendships today?

Good Thoughts

Good Thoughts

Philippians 4: ⁸ Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. ⁹ The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.

 

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“Would you go with me?” was my fear filled question. I was scared to go in the basement of our house because I thought there was a scary man living down there. Back then we called this “the Boogey Man.” Eventually I could go downstairs by myself, but I needed the lights to be on. Some people tried to “fix” my fear by having me go downstairs. They turned off the lights. I screamed!

 

• My fear was real to me.
• My fear caused me to be unable to go places or do things.
• My fear guided my decision making.

 

Paul attempts to address, fear, anxiety, doubt and worry. He provides a way out of the deep holes negative thinking can cause. Instead of worrying about what will happen in the future, “think on these things.”

 

My Observations

• When I think on true, noble and just things, GOD brings clarity to my thinking.
• When I think on pure, lovely and good report things, GOD pulls me out of temptation that takes me off HIS plan.
• When I think on virtuous and praiseworthy things, GOD fills my heart with thankfulness and gives me HIS peace which will not make senses to anyone around me.

 

Let’s face it, life can be scary. I mean, someone will always have scary news which can fill the mind with fear. This fear , when handled alone, can open the mind to the enemy’s discouraging tactics. Suddenly the words, “You’ll never…” or “You will always…” grow stronger while faith grows weaker. BUT GOD has this covered.

 

HE places great examples of those who have overcome scary situations in the Bible and in my life. HE then reminds me, through the HOLY SPIRIT, of the many times HE has brought me through things. A battle surges and I want to give into negative memories. “Yeah, but remember this negative thing?” GOD says. “I got that.” I am glad HE gives me a way to control my thoughts and place them on HIM.

 

Challenge

• What are the opposite of the things listed by the writer?
• Have you ever had negative thoughts because of a negative report or are afraid to go down a very scary path?
• Will you remember that GOD is with you and has brought you through many circumstances?
• Will you fight your mind and allow GOD to put “good report” thoughts in your mind so you can stay on HIS path today?

Finding Peace

Finding Peace

Philippians 4: ⁶ Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart. ⁷ And God's peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus.

 

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“Can I please have a name brand shoe?” was my request. After years of trying, I realized I was not going to get the fashionable items from my parents. Their hard earned money was used for bills, or at least that’s what they said. When I was old enough I got a job. I bought name brand shoes. “LORD, please don’t have it rain today” was my ask.

 

• I wanted people to see my new shoes.
• I did not want “my” shoes to get dirty from rain or dirty places.
• I was proud that I was finally able to buy shoes without the oppression of a budget.

 

Paul provides some quick, yet sage advice to contentment. He knew that living in this world would bring on temptations to have nice things. He also knew people would become discontent by not having these things. He suggested a much better way of thinking about things, namely “be thankful.”

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to be thankful for JESUS saving me.
• GOD wants me to be thankful for all that HE has brought me through.
• GOD wants me to be thankful for the people, places and things in my life so I can see that I am abundantly blessed.

 

Being thankful for people reduces rage over something he or she did. Also, being thankful for the places GOD has me in, opens my eyes to the ministry HE has given me to reap abundant rewards. When I am thankful for the old worn out thing, I reduce my being discontent.

 

GOD sees thankfulness as a sacred place. Kinda like an elevator reaching a floor. Once I reach the level of thankfulness, GOD says “Here, have peace.” HE then opens my mind and my heart to HIS safety that does not make sense to those who seek other people, places and things for their peace. I am grateful GOD reminds me that peace can be found by thankfulness of HIM.

 

Challenge

• What things does the writer suggest you pray for?
• Have you ever been discontent with the things you have?
• Have you ever received something and wanted something else that is similar, later?
• Will you be thankful for who you are, what you have, the people in your life, the things you have and where GOD has you , so you can reach HIS peace HE wants you to have today?

Attitude Power

Attitude Power

Philippians 4: ⁵ Show a gentle attitude toward everyone. The Lord is coming soon. 

 

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After receiving instructions from the LORD to serve my neighbors, I was a bit confused, but did it anyway. Soon it became routine and something I looked forward to. But there was one neighbor who would let their dog out without supervision. The dog would inevitably “go” on my lawn. “Do I have to serve them too?” I wondered.

 

• There have been many people I wanted to “tell off.”
• There have been many circumstances where I was annoyed.
• There have been many situations that I could have been justified in reminding “that” person about the rules.

 

What a strange statement Paul says. It is just shoved in there but says a lot. “Show a gentle attitude toward everyone. The Lord is coming soon.” Implies being caught in the act of gentleness when the LORD returns.

 

My Observations

• GOD handles me gently when HE could handle my sin with harsh discipline.
• JESUS was gentle with those who sought HIM for their needs.
• GOD wants me to be gentle because HE was gentle with me.

 

Gentleness is extremely powerful. I mean, it takes incredible restraint not to complain about “that” person or even judge him or her. GOD is all powerful and is justified with all HIS actions. HE has and could almost wipe out all of humanity, BUT HE shows us incredible restraint.

 

Instead HE gently nudges me back to HIM. HE is gracious enough to open my eyes to say “Is whatever I gain worth ‘that’ person losing their soul?” The answer is always “No.” I am glad GOD gives me the opportunity to show gentleness each day.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer mention the LORD’s return?
• When hearing the term ‘show gentleness”, do specific people come to mind that you feel do not deserve gentleness?
• How can you align to GOD’s will which includes salvation for all, even those you may not like?
• Will you gain the power the HOLY SPIRIT wants you to have by being gentle to “that” person or “those” people today?

Supported

Supported

Philippians 4: ² Euodia and Syntyche, please, I beg you, try to agree as sisters in the Lord. ³ And you too, my faithful partner, I want you to help these women; for they have worked hard with me to spread the gospel, together with Clement and all my other fellow workers, whose names are in God's book of the living.

 

⁴ May you always be joyful in your union with the Lord. I say it again: rejoice!

 

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Not knowing what I was doing, I stayed up late trying to understand my next move. I had never led anything, and now it was my turn to lead a group. Someone must have saw my struggles so he or she paired me up with a more experienced person.

 

• I was glad to have the help.
• I did not know what I was doing and felt overwhelmed.
• I was relieved to be supported.

 

Paul begs two women to agree. He, himself had disagreements that he regretted. He later saw that agreeing with a variety of approaches is far better than everyone doing things the same way. He then requests support for the two women who had a disagreement because they were passionate about the LORD.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to be passionate about spreading the Gospel.
• GOD wants my passion to be focused with discernment and agreement with a variety of approaches.
• GOD wants me to appreciate many styles so I can support versus debate.

 

“There is the right way and there is your way” is most people’s approach. I mean, when it comes to GOD, it seems like worship is the most segregated, gender and age biased thing we can do. Disagreements over music types, racial examples and “young” or “old” thinking keep us separated and weak. BUT GOD has a remedy.

 

Unity with the LORD breaks down arguments about GOD. When I unite with the LORD, HE is the center of attention, not me. HE gets presented in the way that is best for all and I can rejoice even when it is not sung or said the way I would expect. I am glad to be supported and I will support the efforts of those who seek the spreading of the Gospel of our LORD.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer wants these two women to agree?
• Have you ever been passionate about something and were met with someone who was just as passionate about an opposing, yet correct, view of the Savior?
• Will you unite under CHRIST and figure out how to support one another’s views so “more” people can be reached for HIM today?

Purposeful Friendship

 

Purposeful Friendship

Philippians 4:1 So then, my friends, how dear you are to me and how I miss you! How happy you make me, and how proud I am of you!—this, dear friends, is how you should stand firm in your life in the Lord.

 

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“Why doesn’t he ever call me to check in on me?” and “Why do I have to be the one who responds to her needs?” were questions I have asked about certain people. After a while, I stopped calling and responding to people I was not getting anything “from.”

 

• I wanted to be served “for a change.”
• I wanted to have some attention “for a change.”
• I wanted to engage in a storybook friendship “for a change.”

 

Paul raises the bar on friendship by giving it purpose. He mentions how dear the people are and how happy they made him feel and how proud he is of them. Why? Because they shared experiences in their life in the LORD.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants the best for me, so HE gave HIS one and only SON to die for me.
• When JESUS was raised from the dead HE gave me the HOLY SPIRIT to live inside me because I believed I needed a Savior.
• Now that I am saved, GOD wants me to want HIS best for others.

 

Giving oneself to others is commendable, but when I do it in the middle of being needy, it can become detrimental. I mean, friendship is messy. When I am in need, so is the next person. Some people stay in need for decades because GOD is shaping HIM or her to do something great and is not finished yet. Meanwhile, I may take pity on myself and say “What about me?”

 

GOD doesn’t want me to give up on him or her because amazing transformations are happening that I cannot see. But when a glimpse of GOD comes out of any of us, HE is pleased. I am glad the HOLY SPIRIT fills me up so I can overflow HIS love to others.

 

Challenge

• What is the “life in the LORD” look like to you that the writer speaks about?
• Have you ever asked “What about me?” when thinking about certain people?
• Will you seek GOD to fill you up daily so HIS purpose will overflow from your heart and so you can endear “that” person and miss “that” person and be happy and proud of “that” person for CHRIST today?

Waiting for Change

Waiting for Change

Philippians 3: ¹⁷ Keep on imitating me, my friends. Pay attention to those who follow the right example that we have set for you. ¹⁸ I have told you this many times before, and now I repeat it with tears: there are many whose lives make them enemies of Christ's death on the cross. ¹⁹ They are going to end up in hell, because their god is their bodily desires. They are proud of what they should be ashamed of, and they think only of things that belong to this world. ²⁰ We, however, are citizens of heaven, and we eagerly wait for our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, to come from heaven. ²¹ He will change our weak mortal bodies and make them like his own glorious body, using that power by which he is able to bring all things under his rule.

 

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Things were not going as I expected so I decided to hang out with various people who seemed to be having “fun.” Weekends were spent prowling in the clubs, but soon that got old. I decided to go to church. I ran into a guy at church who recognized me and said loudly “We had a great time at the club last night!”

 

• I was trying to live two lives; one to fulfill my bodily desires and one that sought to do right.
• I was embarrassed that my hidden side had been exposed.
• I was upset that the example I pretended to set was now besmirched.

 

Paul makes a bold statement when he says “Keep on imitating me.” He also mentions to pay attention to those who follow the right example. Were they perfect and never made mistakes? No. They simply placed their hope in “eagerly” waiting on the LORD.

 

My Observations

• I am not a citizen of this world, rather a citizen of heaven through CHRIST JESUS.
• I must eagerly wait for our Savior, the LORD JEWSUS CHRIST to come from heaven.
• I look forward to having my earthly body changed into the same glorious body CHRIST has.

 

As I live and breathe, I will continue to make mistakes. I mean, I am a sinner who craves sin. BUT GOD has something better than me fulfilling my sinful desires. HE gives me purpose in HIS SON, JESUS our LORD and Savior.

 

I can now say “One day there will be no pain, no misery and no hurt.” I can also say “HE will wipe away my tears and I will one day be free from all sin and shame.” The ultimate example is not acting perfect, rather eagerly waiting on perfection to return. I am glad JESUS paid for all my sins and will one day return for me and you.

 

Challenge

• What enemy does the writer mention?
• Is there a part of your life that you may be fighting GOD?
• Will you allow the HOLY SPIRIT to enter into your life and guide you to follow the right examples set forth by JESUS today?

Motive. Attitude. Desire.

 

Motive. Attitude. Desire.

Philippians 3: ¹⁵ All of us who are spiritually mature should have this same attitude. But if some of you have a different attitude, God will make this clear to you. ¹⁶ However that may be, let us go forward according to the same rules we have followed until now.

 

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Talking loudly to a friend as we approached the sanctuary, we were met with an usher who had her finger over the lips. “Hush!” was her curt statement. My friend dared to challenge. “Why?” he asked. “Because we are praying.

 

• I was puzzled and wondered why I had to be quiet.
• I got a little offended that “I” was called out for doing something innocent like talking.
• I got busy thinking of ways she could have told us better than she did versus understanding my part.

 

Paul continues explaining that everyone should have CHRIST as the goal. He knew, however, there would be some who would come to gatherings with a different motive. This different “attitude” could not always be cleared up by humans, rather it needed GOD.

 

My Observations

• My motive needs to be placed before GOD so HE can guide it.
• My attitude needs to be adjusted, otherwise I will be easily offended.
• My desire needs to be aligned with GOD’s ultimate desire.

 

Motive, attitude and desire can easily get me M-A-D. I mean, if I can get mad at a group of people who were praying, I could get mad at anything “I” thought was offensive. It takes spiritual maturity to understand various situations that could easily seem offensive.

 

GOD wants me to grow up. HE wants me to value CHRIST as the common goal and look beyond flawed delivery. Giving my M-A-D to GOD helps me be prepared for HIM to make things clear to me. I am glad HE adjusts me daily.

 

Challenge

• What rules is the writer talking about?
• Have you ever been offended easily and found out your offense was possibly misplaced by a lack of understanding?
• Will you seek CHRIST as your motive and allow the HOLY SPIRIT to adjust your attitude and align your desires to what GOD wants, namely to make HIS SON known in a saving way to all?

Keep Going "Froward!"

Keep Going "Froward!"

Philippians 3: ¹² I do not claim that I have already succeeded or have already become perfect. I keep striving to win the prize for which Christ Jesus has already won me to himself. ¹³ Of course, my friends, I really do not think that I have already won it; the one thing I do, however, is to forget what is behind me and do my best to reach what is ahead. ¹⁴ So I run straight toward the goal in order to win the prize, which is God's call through Christ Jesus to the life above.

 

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Wearing newish shoes was special to me because it happened once a year. This pair was cloth with rubber soles. I accidentally stepped in some dog poop. It got all over the shoes. I tried wiping the shoe on the grass to no avail. The stench wreaked the entire day at school, so much so that it brought unwanted attention to me.

 

• I was constantly reminded about my mistake.
• I was upset that my newish shoes were ruined and I had to wait a whole year for another pair.
• I was embarrassed because I distracted other people with my problem.

 

Paul gives everyone a great suggestion. “Keep striving to win the prize for which CHRIST JESUS has already won…” He then states he is not perfect, which implies that he made mistakes and will continue to make mistakes. He gives a solution for making mistakes. “Reach what is ahead.”

 

My Observations

• The enemy constantly reminds me of my mistakes, BUT GOD reminds me HE has forgiven me.
• I replay mistakes over and over with regret, BUT GOD shows me I am still on HIS path.
• Embarrassment plagued my thoughts BUT GOD gave me purpose which wiped away my shame.

 

“GOD’s call through CHRIST to life above” is the one and only true goal. I mean, all other goals I set for myself will be riddled with problems and failures. Like stepping in dog poop, these issues remind me that things could be better or “new” or “different.” I then complain to GOD which takes me off HIS path.

 

Fortunately GOD picks me up and places me back on HIS path. HE bends down and washes my feet, making everything new. Old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. I am glad GOD is the goal and HE allows me to make mistakes because HE can clean up any mess and make me new.

 

Challenge

• Does the writer think he is perfect?
• What does perfection look like in your mind?
• Have you ever been disappointed with yourself for falling or failure?
• Will you be forgiven through CHRIST JESUS so you can run straight towards HIS purpose and allow HIM to wipe the sticky mess off your feet today?

Raised From Exhaustion

 

Raised From Exhaustion

Philippians 3: ⁸ Not only those things; I reckon everything as complete loss for the sake of what is so much more valuable, the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have thrown everything away; I consider it all as mere garbage, so that I may gain Christ ⁹ and be completely united with him. I no longer have a righteousness of my own, the kind that is gained by obeying the Law. I now have the righteousness that is given through faith in Christ, the righteousness that comes from God and is based on faith. ¹⁰ All I want is to know Christ and to experience the power of his resurrection, to share in his sufferings and become like him in his death, ¹¹ in the hope that I myself will be raised from death to life.

 

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After running out of gas again, I vowed to keep a couple of gallons in the tank. Being on the side of the road without gas was frustrating! I woke up, needing to be someplace; jumped in the jalopy of a car and it would not start. The battery was dead. “Ugh! I just got gas!”

 

• Just when I thought I did everything right, something else went wrong.
• “When will it all come together for me?” was my cry in disappointment.
• I had lost hope and was exhausted because there were too many things “I” needed to fix.

 

“Achievement” and “Self-Righteousness” were attitudes Paul addressed. Following the Law to the letter was something he no longer wished to “achieve.” GOD had opened his eyes to the fact that he had become “self-righteous” and was persecuting those who sought JESUS. He looked at his actions as a loss.

 

My Observations

• JESUS is my only true salvation.
• Believing that I can change GOD’s mind by acting good for a short period of time, causes me to be exhausted.
• Connecting my “dead battery” of trying too hard to the power of JESUS’ resurrection gives me endless hope that cannot be exhausted.

 

Running on empty could mean I was trying too hard to please GOD. I mean, JESUS died for me, was raised from the dead and sent the HOLY SPIRIT to live inside me. I had nothing to do with that. I should praise HIM continually, but I find a way to attempt to control GOD so everything will go “my” way.

 

When “bad” things happen, I try to do the Law “better.” BUT GOD sees through this filthy righteousness. All HE wants me to do is to place my faith in JESUS. I am glad I can place my hope in HIS resurrection and look forward to being with HIM eternally.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer consider a complete loss?
• Have you ever thought you were doing things perfectly and still not pleasing GOD?
• Have you ever tried to convince GOD that you deserve better because you sinned less last week?
• Will you place your full hope in JESUS and allow HIM to guide you through life without needing to achieve HIS love that HE already has for you?

New Identity

 

New Identity

Philippians 3 ⁴ I could, of course, put my trust in such things. If any of you think you can trust in external ceremonies, I have even more reason to feel that way. ⁵ I was circumcised when I was a week old. I am an Israelite by birth, of the tribe of Benjamin, a pure-blooded Hebrew. As far as keeping the Jewish Law is concerned, I was a Pharisee, ⁶ and I was so zealous that I persecuted the church. As far as a person can be righteous by obeying the commands of the Law, I was without fault. ⁷ But all those things that I might count as profit I now reckon as loss for Christ's sake. 

 

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Being ridiculed, I did not want to be seen or known. But after being recognized for positive achievements, I craved more accolades. The more “I” achieved, the higher “I” went. Soon my entire identity was wrapped in ”my” title.

 

• My thoughts were only on my title.
• My plans centered around my title.
• My conversations, lack of sleep, decisions and time were based on my title.

 

Paul sounded harsh on those who pushed the need to be circumcised as an implied closeness to GOD. This male oriented action was debunked by Paul as he admitted his own faults. He was extremely zealous for following the scripture but lacked its true meaning, namely CHRIST.

 

My Observations

• When GOD made me, HE said “Very good.”
• My identity is made whole by pointing all lives to CHRIST.
• Only CHRIST deserves the attention and my achievements mean nothing.

 

Having a title or lineage or popularity is not bad unless I place it over what GOD wants for me. I mean, GOD gives me free will to choose HIM or “me.” When I choose “me” I get the spotlight, the accolades and “my” name is mentioned more than HIS.

 

Fortunately GOD understands this and HE gently guides me back to a place of true peace. HE opens my eyes to the need for CHRIST to have the honor of the spotlight. My achievements, accomplishments and accolades mean nothing in comparison to JESUS. I look at the immense time I have wasted as loss and I am grateful GOD hs given me a chance to speak about HIM now.

 

Challenge

• Can you sense regret from the writer?
• Have you ever wanted the attention, maybe even in a passive way?
• What do you cry out to GOD for?
• Will you seek a new identity by placing JESUS over every aspiration in your life today?

Celebration

 

Celebration

Philippians 3:  In conclusion, my friends, be joyful in your union with the Lord. I don't mind repeating what I have written before, and you will be safer if I do so. ² Watch out for those who do evil things, those dogs, those who insist on cutting the body. ³ It is we, not they, who have received the true circumcision, for we worship God by means of his Spirit and rejoice in our life in union with Christ Jesus. We do not put any trust in external ceremonies. 

 

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Preparing for the celebration was hard work. Lists were made, lots of things were prioritized and budgets were blown. Large groups of people were involved in this frenzied experience. Lost sleep, meetings and stress ensued. “It’s tradition” someone said, trying to make sense out of the madness.

 

• We had placed high value on ceremonies.
• We placed a lot of trust in the tradition.
• We made sure the photo opportunities looked like everyone was enjoying themselves.

 

Paul repeats himself by saying “Be joyful in your union with the LORD.” He then warns everyone about trusting in “external ceremonies” versus simply trusting in the union with CHRIST JESUS. He knew that looking holy did not make a person holy.

 

My Observations

• My external actions may look good to people, BUT GOD rates my righteousness as filthy.
• GOD saw my sinful actions and saved me anyway.
• Only my union with CHRIST JESUS can save me.

 

Celebrating special days or people may have its value, but can sometimes be prioritized over the One who deserves celebration, namely JESUS. I mean, it is alright to recognize leaders or to be circumcised or to celebrate accomplishments, but placing trust in these ceremonies could make us think that we holier than we are.

 

Being “joyful” in union with the LORD can happen every day. No special day or moment is needed. GOD made it possible for me to celebrate the LORD each and every day. Traditions are nice, but I am glad I can recognize CHRIST without the need for anyone to see it.

 

Challenge

• Who is the writer warning everyone about?
• What is the “true circumcision?”
• Will you celebrate your relationship with CHRIST as often as you can without the need for a special day or person triggering an event?

Letter of Recommendation

 

Letter of Recommendation

Philippians 2: ²⁵ I have thought it necessary to send to you our brother Epaphroditus, who has worked and fought by my side and who has served as your messenger in helping me. ²⁶ He is anxious to see you all and is very upset because you had heard that he was sick. ²⁷ Indeed he was sick and almost died. But God had pity on him, and not only on him but on me, too, and spared me an even greater sorrow. ²⁸ I am all the more eager, then, to send him to you, so that you will be glad again when you see him, and my own sorrow will disappear. ²⁹ Receive him, then, with joy, as a believer in the Lord. Show respect to all such people as he, ³⁰ because he risked his life and nearly died for the sake of the work of Christ, in order to give me the help that you yourselves could not give.

 

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Working hard made me gain a reputation amongst the owners of the bowling alley. It was easy to get them to write a letter of recommendation for me. But on the job that I missed opening the office because I was hanging out partying, I could not get a letter. In fact, I was fired.

 

• Both experiences shaped me.
• I was reliable on one job and unreliable on another.
• I did not know people were paying attention to me nor did I think it had any bearing on my future.

 

Paul spoke highly in his letter about Epaphroditus. He gave his best recommendation because both had gone through a lot together as they dedicated their life speaking about CHRIST. Like Paul, Epaphroditus “risked his life” for the sake of the work of CHRIST. Paul knew his belief was real.

 

My Observations

• All of my actions are seen by GOD.
• What is in my heart for others writes my letter of recommendation for myself.
• GOD knows when I am insincere and when I am sincere, therefore HE places me in charge of things HE cares about based on what I can handle.

 

Faithfulness to me means continuing in the hope when things seem extremely difficult. I mean, when it looks like all hope is lost, my faith has to remain in CHRIST. This may be contrary to what humans recommend. BUT GOD sees my actions and rewards me when I sincerely follow HIM.

 

HE knows the impossible labels people may place on me that may stain my character and HE says “He is tail useful to ME.” Only GOD’s character is perfect, yet he takes imperfect beings like myself, and sends him or her to speak on JESUS’s behalf. I gladly accept the plan GOD has for me and am grateful HE recommends me.

 

Challenge

• What stands out to you in this letter of recommendation?
• Do you think living for GOD has to be hard and uncomfortable for everyone?
• Will you simply “be” so you can live for CHRIST the way HE made you?
• Will you also show respect for more believers and let GOD judge his or her actions so you can be filled with praise to GOD more often?

About You

About You

Philippians 2: ¹⁹ If it is the Lord's will, I hope that I will be able to send Timothy to you soon, so that I may be encouraged by news about you. ²⁰ He is the only one who shares my feelings and who really cares about you. ²¹ Everyone else is concerned only with their own affairs, not with the cause of Jesus Christ. ²² And you yourselves know how he has proved his worth, how he and I, like a son and his father, have worked together for the sake of the gospel. ²³ So I hope to send him to you as soon as I know how things are going to turn out for me. ²⁴ And I trust in the Lord that I myself will be able to come to you soon.

 

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“What about me?” I pouted on many occasions. There was that time when “this” person got more attention them me or “that” person was given something “I” should have had. The more I thought about these situations, the more angry I became.

 

• I was hurt and lonely.
• I was not able to see other people because I had my own problems.
• I had good reason for voicing “my” problems, “my” discomfort and “my” cause.

 

Paul expresses his deep care about everyone. He wants to send a very dedicated person he adopted as his “son.” He could not hold Timothy to himself, rather felt it more profitable to send him to those in need. His cause was about JESUS.

 

My Observations

• There are times when I want to focus on my needs BUT GOD wants me to see HIS people.
• There are times when I ask “What about me?”, BUT GOD wants me to ask “What about them?”
• There are times when I “feel” like “I” need the attention and to be served and to be seen as special, BUT GOD wants HIS SON to be in the spotlight so HE may be seen by all.

 

“What about me?” is not a bad question. I mean, when I am running on empty, I may not be any good to anyone around me. I need to be filled up as much as the next person. But after I get filled up, GOD wants me to share HIS overflowing love with others.

 

HE wants me to make it about HIM, so HE focuses my attention on “you.” This message is about you and I hope and pray GOD pours out HIS blessings on you. I hope your heart is filled with elation and HE opens doors for you that cannot be shut. I am grateful to have you in my life.

 

Challenge

• What do you think is the writer’s motive?
• Have you ever felt left out, forgotten or not special?
• Will you be filled with the words of love from GOD so you can focus your attention on sending strong people away from you to others in need today?

 

Blood, Sweat and Tears

Blood, Sweat and Tears

Philippians 2: ¹⁷ Perhaps my life's blood is to be poured out like an offering on the sacrifice that your faith offers to God. If that is so, I am glad and share my joy with you all. ¹⁸ In the same way, you too must be glad and share your joy with me.

 

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Working hard, day and night, seemed to pay off. Our team won an award and we were recognized throughout the company. We came together and traded “war” stories. “Remember when things seemed awful?” we reminisced.

 

• I worked hard to accomplish something for a job.
• I poured many hours into something I believed in at the time.
• I was part of a team who also shared in the pain and the reward.

 

Paul considers the hard work and hardship he went through as his “life’s blood.” He was not looking at this like a trophy or an accomplishment for a workaholic. He knew it took sacrifice to give up a life for GOD and the believers in JESUS were worth it.

 

My Observations

• It took JESUS’s blood to save me for eternity.
• It took HIS sweat like blood as HE prayed for me to be saved.
• It took HE tears as HE cried over me knowing I did not know what I was doing while sinning.

 

Blood, sweat and tears is a human term for someone’s life’s work. I mean, many people pour themselves into something they may or may not be known for. GOD sees how we spend our time and has criteria unknown to us that creates rewards for those who believe in JESUS as the Savior.

 

We fight, get knocked down and get back up because we serve people to bring many to CHRIST. We do not do this alone. We serve JESUS together and share in the joy when we see HIS fruit. I am glad to be part of an adopted global family who seeks joy through CHRIST.

 

Challenge

• Who is the writer excited about?
• What does faith have to do with life’s work?
• Can you share your joy with others so they can be encouraged that you are serving the LORD and are determined to continue at all costs today?

Bright Side

Bright Side

Philippians 2: ¹⁴ Do everything without complaining or arguing, ¹⁵ so that you may be innocent and pure as God's perfect children, who live in a world of corrupt and sinful people. You must shine among them like stars lighting up the sky, ¹⁶ as you offer them the message of life. If you do so, I shall have reason to be proud of you on the Day of Christ, because it will show that all my effort and work have not been wasted.

 

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“The problem with this place is…” was my normal statement. I could spot what was “wrong” a mile away. I also had fallen into a habit of complaining about “bad” service. I had experienced “good” service and compared it to those who could not roll out the red carpet to me. This gave me ground to “argue” about payment or even getting more out the deal.

 

• I had become a habitual complainer.
• I had become combative and argumentative.
• I could not tell my adversaries about CHRIST, but I won the argument, or so I thought.

 

Complaints and arguments dim the light CHRIST wants us to shine, according to Paul. As we navigate this world full of combative, demanding and selfish people, complaints and arguments go unnoticed. Only GOD’s light will show up different.

 

My Observations

• Growing up to walk in GOD’s light is hard for me but necessary.
• Reducing complaints so GOD can be seen is much better path for me, and is not easy to do, but necessary.
• Reducing arguments so GOD can be heard provides a rich environment for all, which is not always easy but necessary.

 

Protecting myself from bullies of all kind, overt and passive, led me to shameful tactics that included complaining about people and arguing against them. This combative approach toughened me up to face those who attacked me. BUT GOD’s light shining through me was dimmed at each “win.’ Someone has to lose win “I” win.

 

Also, the enemy found a way to perpetuate his complaints about each person. He doesn’t have to go before GOD complaining about a person when he has enlisted people to complain about each other. GOD’s light requires peace, love, joy, patience, and gentleness, to name a few. I am glad HE helps me reduce complaints and arguments, and hope someday they will be extinguished.

 

Challenge

• What stands out about the writers warning?
• Have you ever assessed how much you complain about people or “that” person?
• Is it easy for you to argue or to help someone see a “better” way?
• Will you seek to show GOD’s light by reducing your combat and looking for ways to help everyone “win” versus someone losing his or her life for eternity?

Working It Out

Working It Out

Philippians 2: ¹² So then, dear friends, as you always obeyed me when I was with you, it is even more important that you obey me now while I am away from you. Keep on working with fear and trembling to complete your salvation, ¹³ because God is always at work in you to make you willing and able to obey his own purpose.

 

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Being stopped by a local thug was always a scary encounter. This particular day was no different. One thug stopped me and asked me questions. I wondered what that was all about, but went along with it because I felt I had no other choice.

 

I noticed other thugs snickering. When the encounter was over, someone said, “They were working together to pick your pockets.” They had gone through my coat without my knowledge.

 

• I was distracted by questions.
• I was deceived by something that scared me.
• I was detoured from my destination because I was not looking at where I was going.

 

Paul provides a warning to “keep on working with fear and trembling to complete your salvation.” He knew there would be many false teachers, greedy people and thieves who wanted followers versus genuine followers of the Living CHRIST. He tells everyone who believes that “GOD is always at work in you.”

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to keep praying to not be deceived.
• GOD wants me to fear falling for false teaching, false preaching and false movements that could distract me from HIS will.
• GOD wants me to know HE has a purpose for me that the deceiver wants to stop at all costs.

 

Purpose is a gift from GOD. I mean, HE gave me a purpose to point people to the Most High GOD, through belief in JESUS. You would think this would be easy, but the deceiver has made it difficult. Through worldly tactics, the enemy fools people into trying to make GOD into “their” image.

 

False teaching confuses people, false images deceive people and false information worry people. BUT GOD took care of all of that too. HE makes believers “willing and able to obey HIS purpose” to prevent being deterred. I gladly work out my relationship with GOD by fearing being deceived and by pursuing HIS will.

 

Challenge

• What obedience do you think the writer is describing?
• How is GOD working in you?
• Will you continue to pursue the truth about GOD by seeking HIM through HIS Word and by serving HIM through loving others today?

Will

Will

Philippians 2: ⁸ He was humble and walked the path of obedience all the way to death—
    his death on the cross.
⁹ For this reason God raised him to the highest place above
    and gave him the name that is greater than any other name.
¹⁰ And so, in honor of the name of Jesus
    all beings in heaven, on earth, and in the world below
    will fall on their knees,
¹¹ and all will openly proclaim that Jesus Christ is Lord,
    to the glory of God the Father.

 

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Walking into a quiz was a surprise to me. I had missed the previous class that announced the quiz and was unprepared. I walked out and applied for an extension to take the quiz the following week. During that week, I felt like giving up. I was asked to go to a party. “I wonder if I should” I thought to myself.

 

• I was discouraged and felt like giving up.
• I wanted to finish, but was easily distracted by people and circumstances.
• I felt alone with no guidance.

 

Paul continues to describe what JESUS did after becoming a human. He talked about the humility and obedience JESUS carried as HIS normal way of living. HE could have said, “I AM GOD, so you better do as I say.” But HE never uttered those words. Instead HE remained obedient all the way to death.

 

My Observations

• My “will” can cause me to lose focus of “GOD’s will.”
• GOD wants me to align my desires to HIS “will” so I can see true success.
• One day I “will” bow my knees and proclaim JESUS is LORD.

 

“Will” can mean leaving stuff to people, an act of kindness, a strong desire or a future state of being. All of these definitions were fulfilled by GOD through JESUS. HE gave everything to HIM because of HIS obedience and humility. JESUS showed immense kindness to HIS creation, even though they hated HIM. HE was determined to accomplish HIS task and walked with perfection, though tempted at every decision.

 

One day all “will” fall on our knees and all “will” openly proclaim that JESUS CHRIST is LORD. Whether we like it or not, it “will” be revealed to us who JESUS really is. I am thankful GOD enables me to do HIS “will” by giving me the HOLY SPIRIT. I believe what JESUS did was necessary.

 

Challenge

• What is the writer amazed about?
• Have you ever wanted to be noticed for your title or accomplishments or some other status?
• Have you ever been forced to submit to authority when someone you did not like received a title?
• “Will” you openly and “willingly” point your life to JESUS without any expectation and begin proclaiming that HE IS LORD today?