TUESDAY October 22, 2024

God’s Wisdom and Spiritual Understanding

Colossians 1:9

When Christians pray, they enter into a time of intimate communion with God. As they study His Word, they are filled with His knowledge, wisdom and spiritual understanding. Every answer to their questions and problems are found in the Bible. The Holy Spirit dwells in them, and He becomes their Counselor (John 14:16-17).

When someone asks for counseling, point them to three important principles, because usually, one of these areas is lacking in their lives. Ask them, “Have you been praying?” They may reply, “Once in a while.” Continue to ask, “Are you daily studying the Word of God?” They often reply, “I am pretty busy, so when I get the chance, I read it.”

Finally, ask, “Are you regularly going to a Bible study and, for accountability, remaining in fellowship with other believers?” People usually admit, “Once in a while I go to church.” Well then, you can see why these Christians have problems in their lives.

If only believers in Christ would discipline themselves to pray, study the Word of God daily, and fellowship with others, they would save themselves a lot of heartache. Christians must also have their own personal time with God. Sit alone with an open Bible and wait on God to speak to you through the Scriptures. Learn from the stories and all the lives of different people––they are examples for you.

Again, if you are too busy to do the three essentials of being in prayer, studying the Word, and fellowshipping with other believers, then you are too busy!

Blessed is the man... [whose] delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season....
~Psalm 1:1-3~

MONDAY October 21, 2024

Knowing the Knowledge of God’s Will

Colossians 1:9

I love how Paul started to develop his prayer for the Colossian fellowship. He never ceased praying that they would be filled with the knowledge of God’s perfect will for their lives. This is a common question asked by believers, “What is God’s will for my life?” The Word of God makes God’s will easy to understand. Consider how Paul instructed believers to know the will of God for their lives in these two passages of Scripture:

Romans 12:1-2 NLT: And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

1 Thessalonians 4:3-7 NLT: God’s will is for you to be holy, so stay away from all sexual sin. Then each of you will control his own body and live in holiness and honor—not in lustful passion like the pagans who do not know God and his ways. Never harm or cheat a fellow believer in this matter by violating his wife, for the Lord avenges all such sins, as we have solemnly warned you before. God has called us to live holy lives, not impure lives.

Reread these passages and answer these questions for yourself. In what ways can you learn to do God’s will? What is God’s revealed will?

Like Paul, my prayer for you is that your life would be in complete submission to Jesus Christ, because only then will you be filled with the knowledge of God’s will for your life. I know that, as you give yourself to the study of God’s Word, you will receive the wisdom and guidance to always do His will.

Is it difficult to know God’s will? There is a simple answer which is this: God’s will is for everyone to obey His Word.
~Billy Graham~

SUNDAY October 20, 2024

Love in the Spirit

Colossians 1:7-8

Notice Paul's companion in the church of Colossae, it was his dear, fellow servant Epaphras who was a faithful minister of Jesus Christ. How I thank God for all the faithful ministers of Christ. They are His trusted servants.

Did you know the book of Acts is the only epistle in the New Testament that does not have an amen? That means the Church is still continuing to make history today. Think about it. God is still moving! He is moving in your life and in mine. God is using and working through faithful men and women in many churches around the world today.

Listen, the work of God continues through much prayer, the teaching of the Word of God, and the power of the Holy Spirit. As the Church submits, as the Church repents, and as the Church waits upon God, the power and energy of the Holy Spirit will enable believers to do the work of the ministry. God’s work, done God’s way, will accomplish much.

Have you asked God recently to empower you by His Holy Spirit so you can become a bold witness for Christ in your Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the uttermost parts of the world (Acts 1: 8)? He wants to use your life!

Another way God helps you to become a witness to those who do not know Christ is through His love. Epaphras spoke to Paul about the love of Christ seen among the believers in Colossae. Your life is to bring forth the fruit of love. Jesus said: “Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples” (John 13:35 NLT).

Do you have the Holy Spirit’s power and love evident in your life? If you are lacking these, then pray and ask God to fill you anew.

In the Gospel, the Spirit is not a Spirit of bondage and fear, but a Spirit of power and of love.
~Samuel Bolton~

SATURDAY October 19, 2024

Knowing the Grace of God in Truth

Colossians 1:6

Paul boldly declared that the Gospel had gone out into all the world! Can you believe that? The first century Church was reaching the whole world, as it was known, with the Gospel message. The Church was very fruitful in their evangelism. They proclaimed the grace of God to sinners who needed to hear the truth of God’s Word.

The early Church was fulfilling the Great Commission, given to them by our Lord in Matthew 28:18-20. He told His disciples:

“All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.

What about the Church today? During the Jesus People Movement, evangelism was at an all-time high. There was a saying in the Calvary Chapel movement, “Healthy sheep beget the sheep.” When Christians are well taught from the Bible, they just naturally shared their faith with whomever they came in contact with. Today, believers are more private. They are keeping their Christian faith to themselves. They are not as bold as they should be.

We need to continue the Great Commission and take the Gospel to all the world! How did the early Church accomplish reaching the world for Jesus Christ? Their dependence was on the power of the Holy Spirit. That was what gave the Church its power (Acts 2). That is exactly how Calvary Chapel started––having a dependence on the Holy Spirit’s power.

I thank God for the Calvary Chapels that are following the book of Acts. If they abide by the leading of God’s Spirit and the philosophy of ministry set down by its founder, Pastor Chuck Smith, they will continue to grow.

For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
~John 1:17~

FRIDAY October 18, 2024

Faith, Love and Hope

Colossians 1:4-5

Clearly the Colossian church had a steadfast faith, despite those trying to sow discord through their heresies. What was evident in the lives of the Colossians? It was their love of Christ expressed from their hearts toward other believers. Love is a true characteristic of a Christian. Jesus told His disciples that love was an identifying mark of true Christianity: “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35).

There are three important words mentioned in these verses––faith, love and hope. These are three essential characteristics in the life of a believer. You will notice that faith, love and hope are three words that are often coupled together in Scripture.

Sinners come to faith in Jesus Christ as they trust Him for their salvation. They have taken the first step of faith, and then their faith grows. Once saved, they love Him because of all He has done for them: We love Him because He first loved us (1 John 4:19). Those who have sinned more love Him the most (Luke 7:47). As we love Christ, we love others around us with God’s love––His agape, unconditional love.

Finally, the Gospel message gives great hope to those who take hold of salvation. It will not disappoint Christians: Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us (Romans 5:5). We have a hope in what God has planned for our lives (Jeremiah 29:11), and a hope of eternal life: ...in hope of eternal life which God, who cannot lie, promised before time began... (Titus 1:2).

We must never, ever lose heart, because we wait for the hope which is laid up in heaven for us.

You know, eternal life does not start when we go to heaven. It starts the moment you reach out to Jesus. He never turns His back on anyone. And He is waiting for you....
~Corrie ten Boom~

THURSDAY October 17, 2024

Morning and Evening Devotions

Psalm 119:147-148

Is prayer a priority in your life? How important is prayer and the Word of God to you? Do you meditate upon God's Word morning and evening? The word meditate means “to muse, study or ponder.” It is really important to spend time in prayer communion with God in the morning before you start your day.

I encourage you to take a book of the Bible and read it throughout the week. Slowly go through the Bible, chapter by chapter and book by book. As you read and pray, you will enjoy close communion with God. You are setting your heart before Him and allowing Him to speak to you. Then you will be ready to receive from the Lord––ready to hear and obey.

Know this: God desires to communicate with you as you fellowship with Him through His Word and through prayer. Not only will you have His presence and peace in your life, but He will also lead and guide you into His perfect will. When you pray and abide in His Word, He will be with you as you leave your home to go to work, to school or college, and He will watch over you throughout your entire day.

The most beautiful thing about communion with the Lord is that you can go and sit somewhere quiet and pray and read your Bible. Why not gather with a few other believers at work during your lunchtime and have a short time of prayer? The Bible tells us: “For where two or three are gathered together in My [Jesus] name, I am there in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:20).

Make sure you set a time for devotions every day with the Lord, because as you keep giving God thanks and stay in prayer and His Word, He will move in your life and the lives of those you are praying for in a mighty way.

Every time you miss your devotional life, every time you miss your prayer, every time you miss reading your Word, as a Christian you are in trouble.
~Billy Graham~

WEDNESDAY October 16, 2024

Praying Always

Colossians 1:3-4

Paul voiced in his letter to the Colossians a grave situation––the problem of two main heresies that challenged the preeminence of Christ––Gnosticism and, once again, legalism. The doctrine of Gnosticism attacked the deity of Jesus Christ.

Gnostics believed that Jesus was not God. Legalism attacked the grace of God. Judaizers taught legalism. They falsely informed people that God’s grace was not enough to be saved. They needed to continue to live their lives in bondage to the Jewish Law. Christianity freed people from the Law to live their lives under the grace of God––period. These two false teachings were destroying people's faith in Christ and caused a lot of confusion.

Paul was thankful for the believers in Colossae who stood firm in the faith of Christ, and who were not swayed by heresy. He praised them for their genuine love for all the saints. Notice how Paul's prayer expresses his thanks to God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. He continued to tell the Colossians that continuous prayers were being made for them.

Learning from Paul, our prayers should also begin with thanksgiving. Too often we start with petitioning God for our needs. In Matthew 6, Jesus taught His disciples to pray. The prayer is often referred to as “The Lord's prayer” or what is commonly known as “The Model Prayer.” Jesus instructed His disciples to address God first in their prayers: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:9-10). Afterwards, petitions were made for their needs: “Give us this day our daily bread...” (Matthew 6:11).

It is good to make it a habit to start our prayers with thanksgiving to God. However, our prayers need not be repetitious. We pray to the Lord from our hearts.

To give thanks to God is but a small return for the great benefits which he daily gives us.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

TUESDAY October 15, 2024

Grace and Peace

Colossians 1:2

Once again, within Paul’s greeting to the Colossian church, as with the other epistles, he wrote, Grace to you and peace.... Again, I must reiterate the necessity for people to know God’s grace, His unmerited favor, before they can experience His peace. The word peace is a Hebrew greeting “Shalom.” However, if you were Greek, you would greet another person with, “Grace be unto you.” Both of these greetings were adopted into the Church.

Think about it. Grace and peace have been given to all Christians from God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ! Yet so many believers do not understand God’s grace and the peace that is theirs. God extended His grace to us by sending His Son, Jesus, to die on the Cross to take away our sin: For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast (Ephesians 2:8-9). Great grace has been given to believers in Christ, which, in turn, blesses them with His peace that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7).

Think about it. God’s peace is needed in the everyday decisions we have to make in life. Sometimes people ask me, “Well, how do you know the perfect will of God?” Easy! It is made known to us through the perfect peace that He gives. If we do not have peace and are wrestling with a decision, then we should not go forward until God gives us His peace. If we have no peace, we will feel like we are not aligned with God's perfect will.

Are you in need of grace and peace today? Then seek God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace and peace can only come through knowing them.

Grace and peace are called the Siamese twins of the New Testament because they’re always coupled together. This is the proper order of the two words, for you can’t have the peace of God until you’ve first experienced His grace.
~Chuck Smith~

MONDAY October 14, 2024

The Characteristics of Faithfulness

Colossians 1:1-2

In 1 Timothy 1:12, we find that Paul was counted faithful by the Lord to be entrusted with the Gospel. His young protégé Timothy was a sickly person. Paul knew he had stomach problems, and yet he also remained faithful to the Gospel (1Timothy 5:23). Later, he urged in a letter to Timothy, to remain faithful to God. He told him: O Timothy! Guard what was committed to your trust (1 Timothy 6:20). He also shared with this young man: You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus (2 Timothy 2:1). Paul loved Timothy.

Paul wanted Timothy to recognize faithful men among the body of Christ. Why? The truth of the Gospel could be entrusted to them, and they would faithfully proclaim the Gospel message to others: And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also (2 Timothy 2:2).

What should the character of a Christian be like? A Christian should display faithfulness––not unfaithfulness. Your character as a Christian matters––it follows you. People can either depend on you, or they cannot. Faithfulness is one of the important requirements of leadership. If you are faithful in the small things, God will entrust you with bigger things.

According to the Word of God, those who have come to Christ are called saints. In the Greek language, the word for saints is hagios, which means you have been “set apart.” Your life has been set apart for a specific work of God. In the church, at home, or in the workplace, are you remaining faithful to what God has called you to do?

I know of nothing which I would choose to have as the subject of my ambition for life than to be kept faithful to my God till death.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

SUNDAY October 13, 2024

Faithful Brethren

Colossians 1:1-2

While under house arrest, Paul continued to write. Remember, there are four prison epistles. He had completed the epistles to the Ephesians and the Philippians. He now moved forward to communicate by letter to the Colossian church.

The book of Colossians not only contains a classic passage about the preeminence of Jesus Christ, but it also contains a severe warning against the false philosophies that were being taught at that time. There were two main philosophies––Gnosticism and Judaism. Gnosticism was capable of destroying people’s faith in Christ. It challenged Christ’s deity. Judaism was legalism. Knowing the danger that these false philosophies could cause, Paul decided to write to the faithful brethren in Christ.

In the New Testament times, among the Greeks, when a letter was written, you would always put the name of the writer first. Then you would write who the letter was being addressed to at the end. That is why, in every one of Paul’s epistles, we see these types of salutations: Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the will of God, and Timothy our brother. Timothy was discipled by Paul; he was a son in the faith.

Interestingly, Paul had never visited the church of Colossae. He had not even visited the city. This established church was not Jewish; the majority of the church was Gentile. In order to have a synagogue in any city, you needed to have at least 12 Jewish men. And so it was, the church of Colossae was a Gentile church, having among them a number of Jews.

However, Paul did know some of the people by face and by name in the church. In Colossians 4, we find out that he knew Epaphras, Onesimus, and Archippus. Philemon and Apphia are mentioned in his letter to Philemon. These were some of the people who Paul had contact with––faithful brethren.

The Church does not need brilliant personalities but faithful servants of Jesus and the brethren. Not in the former but in the latter is the lack.
~Dietrich Bonhoeffer~

SATURDAY October 12, 2024

Fulfilling the Will of God

Colossians 1:1

Over a period of about 23 years, Paul faithfully shared his conversion story––his Christian faith (Acts 9). God’s plan for Paul was revealed to Ananias, a disciple of Jesus, who was called by the Lord to go pray for him:

“Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake” (Acts 9:15-16).

Paul was called to be an Apostle of Jesus Christ. That was God’s will for his life. He was not fearful of sinful men––kings or otherwise. He was not afraid of what might happen while in their hands. He rejoiced in God, knowing his future was secure in Christ. He looked forward to heaven and rejoiced in the hope of being with his Lord.

In studying the Bible, there was no one who had suffered as much as Paul, apart from Job. As an Apostle of Christ, he endured beatings, shipwrecks, and dangers from bandits and the Jews and Gentiles who hated him. His life was in peril. He often lacked sleep, food and necessities, but he was committed to fulfill his ministry given to him by the Lord.

I feel the same way as Paul. I love what I do––serving the Lord. I am not a pastor-teacher or an evangelist because I chose this path as a profession. You see, I am in the ministry because God placed a call on my life. I am called by His will to preach the Gospel.

Like Paul, I want to finish my race. Now that I am older, why should I retire? Retire and do what? Play golf? Go surfing every day? Some people find when they retire, they lose their purpose in life. Like Paul, I will continue to serve the Lord until He takes me home. It could be that I will have a heart attack and go right into the presence of God!

Are you serving the Lord in some capacity? Will you continue to serve the Lord all the days of your life? Commit to do the will of God and keep steadfastly looking toward eternity––one day you will be with the Lord.

Commitment to the will of God - the purpose for which we are designed - offers freedom to become the person we are meant to be.
~Charles E. Hummel~

FRIDAY October 11, 2024

Christ Be With Us All

Philippians 4:21-23

Paul’s final remarks to the Philippians are recorded. He closed his epistle once and for all. He concluded by greeting every saint––those “separated ones,” set apart for God. Paul was so dedicated in his ministry to love and care for all the believers in Philippi.

Interestingly, Paul mentioned the saints that were in Caesar’s household. Some family members of Caesar, as-well-as all kinds of place workers, had been led to the Lord. They all became a part of the Church.

Paul rejoiced with the Philippians because it was through their giving and praying that Paul’s ministry flourished. Even those within Caesar Nero’s Praetorian––palace guards––were now sending greetings to the Philippians. Amazing!

Circle these words in this closing passage of Scripture, “you all.” Paul referenced every saint around the world––all those who believed in Jesus Christ. In the beginning of the book of Philippians, Paul started with grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. He now ends with the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

As we all share in the glorious redemption found in Jesus Christ, we are reminded of the grace of God that is to be our daily joy!

Our joy is to come from the assurance that we have redemption in Christ. The greatest joy that a person can have is to know that his name is written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, that he is saved and will live forever with Christ.
~R.C. Sproul~

THURSDAY October 10, 2024

God’s Promise of Provision

Philippians 4:19-20

Paul has been on both sides of the financial road––at times blessed with financial provisions, and other times, he suffered need and went without. In either case, he learned to be content with his circumstances.

God can teach us so many lessons about finances. Do not take the long road by making mistakes with your finances; do not overspend and get into debt. Be content with whatever God has given to you. God does not promise to supply your greed, but your need! You are not going to get anything from Him that will ruin you, but only what you need.

Maybe you have financial problems, but God is there for you. All you have to do is trust Him to supply your needs according to His riches. He will never fail in providing for you in His perfect time. This is a miracle of God. David, the sweet psalmist of Israel, reminds us:

I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his descendants begging bread. He is ever merciful, and lends; and his descendants are blessed (Psalm 37:25-26).

What is your need today? It may be financial, physical or spiritual. Hold on to this prayerful promise and underline it in your Bible: ...my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Pray about your needs; God will provide according to His will. Wait on the Lord and be at peace. He will help you to be content in life.

A daily portion is really all we need. We do not need tomorrow’s supply, for that day has not yet dawned, and its needs are still unborn.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

WEDNESDAY October 9, 2024

Having Fruit That Abounds

Philippians 4:16-18

Paul reflected back on the aid sent to him by the Philippians for his necessities. The gift was brought to him by his beloved friend Epaphroditus. Again, Paul never asked for support––not one penny. He never asked for anything, because His trust was in the Lord.

The Philippians were moved by God to willingly give to Paul. They knew of his financial difficulties, and, as his friends, they wanted to help him. In return, Paul desired that God would give to them fruit that abounds to their own accounts by blessing them with rich, spiritual dividends, not necessarily monetary blessings. The gift sent to Paul was an acceptable gift that was well-pleasing to God.

I love what Paul said: ...but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. He referred to banking spiritual dividends in heaven! Temporal things are going to burn up. Eternal things will last forever, and one day we will be rewarded. God keeps record of those things given to the work of the Lord. It is not so much about the gift given, but the return to be had. There are eternal dividends in heaven kept for us.

When funds are given to help and bless pastors in Chile, Colombia or Peru, missionaries in Thailand, widows, and orphans, or you faithfully give tithes to provide for the needs of Calvary Chapel Golden Springs, God keeps records. May God help us to give because we are investing into the Kingdom of God.

The Lord is pleased when you give obediently. It is a sweet-smelling offering of praise to Him.

It's what you sow that multiplies, not what you keep in the barn.
~Adrian Rodgers~

TUESDAY October 8, 2024

Joyful Generosity

Philippians 4:14-15

Paul received a missionary gift from the Philippian church. In their sensitivity toward him, they recognized that he had many needs; so they took up an offering and sent it to him to alleviate some of his immediate distress.

Paul was very grateful because God had heard his prayers and provided everything he needed. He had never asked for money. As he prayed, God touched people’s hearts to give. In helping him, the Philippians had become a channel of provision––so beautiful. He rejoiced in God’s faithfulness.

He also rejoiced knowing that the Philippians had a renewed interest in the furtherance of the Gospel in Rome. They had once more sent aid for the work of God. In their giving, the Philippian church was flourishing.

God uses churches and people to be channels to bless others. This only becomes possible when people give in obedience and in sensitivity to the Holy Spirit speaking to them. When people give to Calvary Chapel Golden Springs, we are able to support different ministries––pastors, churches in need or those serving in the mission fields in South America.

God hears the prayers of the needy; He will move people’s hearts to give and alleviate their distress.

The greatest joy of a Christian is to give joy to Christ.
~C. H. Spurgeon~

MONDAY October 7, 2024

Christ Strengthens Us

Philippians 4:12-13

Paul’s philosophy of ministry should be mimicked. As he could accept whatever life brought his way, so should we accept what the Lord allows in our lives. Although not a happy camper under house arrest, Paul had learned everywhere and in all things to be content.

It did not matter to Paul if he was full and had plenty or suffered hunger and lived without daily necessities. He knew how to abound and to suffer need. Paul’s witness in how to exhibit joy and contentment, despite his trials, was tremendous. Understand, he did not have fleeting happiness, but an inward joy that always remained.

Then Paul made an incredible declaration. He had the ability to do all things through Christ’s strength. He knew he could not do anything in his own strength. He had the strength of God to accomplish the work of God. The verb strengthens means “be strong or to have strength.” Paul had Christ’s strength to withstand all.

When difficult situations arise, many believers lose their joy, but this is when we are to exhibit joy. We are not supposed to fall apart when trials, tragedies or temptations happen. We need to lean on the strength of Christ. Then people in the world can see that our strength and joy come from Him: Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the LORD is your strength!” (Nehemiah 8:10 NLT).

Know that life is hard! You will need to depend on Christ’s strength twenty-four-seven!

A faithful God does not expect you to do what you cannot; He supplies the needed strength.
~Erwin W. Lutzer~

SUNDAY October 6, 2024

The Perfect State of Contentment

Philippians 4:10-11

In life, Paul had learned to be content––to be in a perfect state of contentment in Christ. He rejoiced because of all the blessed resources abundantly provided for him. The Philippians were a giving church. What they gave to Paul enabled him to continue forward in the work of the ministry.

As a believer, have you learned to be content? Even believers can live very unhappy, discontented lives. Listen, contentment is not an escape from life. It is an abiding peace and confidence in the midst of life’s battles. That is why the Apostle, under house arrest, could say: ...for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.... Come what may, Paul found contentment.

Learn and content are two words to consider in our Christian walk. The verb to learn means “to learn by experience.” Paul’s joy bubbled up from within his heart as he continually depended on Jesus for everything. He learned how to be content in Christ.

The word content means “to be contained.” It is a good description of the man whose resources come from within him. He does not need to depend on outward circumstances. The Greek word for contentment can also mean “to be self-sufficient,” but this is not to be taken as sufficient in ourselves. Our sufficiency is in Christ.

People in the world strive to be happy and joyful, but they are never truly satisfied. A discontented person is always trying to figure out how to make more money or gain happiness through material possessions. They live a life of monotony with no real purpose. True contentment comes from Christ; He has a purpose and plan for our lives.

You say, ‘If I had a little more, I should be very satisfied.’ You make a mistake. If you are not content with what you have, you would not be satisfied if it were doubled.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

SATURDAY October 5, 2024

God’s Peace

Philippians 4:9

As the Philippians put Paul’s teachings into practice and followed the example he had set, the Apostle knew that the peace of God would be with them. He desired they experience God’s peace.

Do you have the peace of God? You must know the grace of God before you can experience the peace of God. In Paul’s greetings to churches, he often stated: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 1:7). Grace always comes before peace.

Obedience to God’s Word can bring about God’s peace in your life: Great peace have those who love Your law, and nothing causes them to stumble (Psalm 119:165). Job, a man greatly tested by God, said: “Submit to God, and you will have peace; then things will go well for you” (Job 22:21 NLT). Are things going well in your life? If you are suffering the consequences of a life of disobedience, get back to where you need to be––submit to God and obey His Word.

Trials will still come, times may still be difficult, but you will have the peace of God that passes all understanding: ...you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7 NLT).

God’s presence is a comforting peace. He knows those who need His comforting presence: The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit (Psalm 34:18). One of the renderings for Philippians 4:5 CEB is the Lord is near. The nearness of His presence becomes the secret to rejoicing. Again, His presence will bring you much needed peace.

What is your situation? Do you need God’s peace through receiving His grace through salvation? Do you need to repent of your backslidings and find a renewed peace through submission to God and obedience to His Word? Are you broken and in need of His comforting presence?

Peace comes not from the absence of trouble, but from the presence of God.
~Alexander Maclaren~

FRIDAY October 4, 2024

The Battle for the Mind

Philippians 4:8

Paul’s final advice to combat worry and anxiety was to engage in the raging war of the battle for your mind. Are you constantly thinking about your problems and anxieties? Some believers battle with lies in their mind, thinking they are worthless. Others battle with thinking impure thoughts. Paul made a list of things to help discipline our minds into right thinking.

In each case, we are to think on things that are true. Truth is found in God’s Word: The entirety of Your word is truth... (Psalm 119:160). God is true: But the LORD is the true God... (Jeremiah 10:10). Jesus is truth: “I am the way, the truth, and the life...” (John 14:6). The Spirit is truth: “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth...” (John 16:13).

The word noble in the Greek language means “worthy of respect,” and just means “righteous.” Things that are pure are thoughts that are to be holy––given to all things moral and clean. The word lovely means “pleasing.” Are your thoughts respectful, righteous, clean and pleasing to God? Good report refers to “what is considered to be seeking kindness, courteousness and respect toward other people.” Thinking about what you can do for others will help you to get your eyes off yourself.

Last on the list is to meditate or think on things that are virtuous and praiseworthy. When you think on the things Paul suggests, you will win the battle for your mind. God will honor your life and give you His peace.

Anyone who wishes to check on his true spiritual condition may do so by noting what his voluntary thoughts have been over the last hours or days ... The best way to control our thoughts is to offer the mind to God in complete surrender.
~A. W. Tozer~

THURSDAY October 3, 2024

How to Deal With Worry and Anxiety

Philippians 4:6-7

Paul took time to explain to the Philippians the secret of a worry-free life. He did not give way to worry––concern yes, but not constant worry. Instead, he trusted in the Lord. Paul directed them to not only trust the Lord, but to remain in constant prayer with thanksgiving, then they would experience victory over worry and anxiety.

In the Greek language, the words anxious or careful mean “to be pulled into different directions.” Anxiety can pull a person in all kinds of different directions––as if pulling them apart from limb to limb. Worry, little by little, can strangle the very life from a person. It plagues them with anxiety as they succumb to their mixed emotions.

Are you pulled in different directions emotionally because of worry and anxiety? I know that we are living in difficult times; inflation is at an all-time high. People are worried about their rent or car payments, their job, children, or spouse. Some people worry so much it affects them physically. They lose their hair, or they are constantly biting their nails.

Worry and anxiety are thieves that steal your joy and peace. Seriously, these negative, twin emotions will affect your thinking. A worried mind cannot think clearly to make wise decisions. Additionally, put into practice thankfulness. A thankful heart will change your perspective. Focus on your blessings, and pray about your problems.

Consider the words of Jesus: “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble” (Matthew 6:34). Do not let worry control your life.

You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.
~Isaiah 26:3~

WEDNESDAY October 2, 2024

Rejoice in the Lord!

Philippians 4:4-5

As I continue to study Paul’s Philippian epistle, I cannot help but think to myself, Paul, how can you rejoice when you are under house arrest? But he always rejoiced. Paul encouraged the believers in Philippi to do likewise––rejoice in the Lord always.

Rejoicing is an attitude we all need to have in life. We must all learn to trust and believe that God is working all things out for our good: And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). Having this mind-set will help us to rest in God’s promises. Resting in the truth of God’s Word will cause us to always rejoice in the Lord!

Paul went on to exhort the Philippian church to let their gentleness be known to all men. This quality of gentleness is seen in the life of a spirit-filled Christian. It is a gentle strength that can only be operated through the Spirit of God (Galatians 5:23). Gentleness naturally displays humility and meekness––power under control.

Notice how Paul concluded verse 5. He gave a commanding statement: The Lord is at hand. In his life, he lived in expectancy of Christ’s return. This hope of Christ’s return caused him to rejoice every day. The Bible teaches that living in anticipation of Christ’s return will cause us to live a pure life:

Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure (1 John 3:2-3).

Living with the hope of Jesus’ soon return should also cause us to think of others. Take a good look around you––people need Jesus! They need to see you rejoicing in the midst of your problems. When they do, they will ask you the reason for your joy. They will want what you have––Jesus!

A rejoicing heart soon makes a praising tongue.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

TUESDAY October 1, 2024

Be of the Same Mind

Philippians 4:2-3

In the church of Philippi, one cause of division was two women who did not get along with each other. Paul did not state the reason why they were at odds, but it seemed believers were taking sides which expanded the problem. Their behavior had the potential of causing a bigger division in the church. Division needs to be nipped in the bud right away––it cannot be allowed to grow.

Euodia and Syntyche were exhorted to be of the same mind; otherwise, Christian testimony would be ruined. It would give the church a black eye, so to speak, among the non-believers. Paul trusted in the authority of the Word of God to sort these issues. He knew forgiveness was the only way to restore the situation.

At times, there are little schisms that rise up in churches. Sadly, they add burdens to the hearts and minds of church leadership. They cause such a headache and heartache to the church. They extinguish joy. Division destroys the witness of Christ in a community. Non-believers will begin to question the validity of Christianity because they see disunity, instead of unity.

Division-makers are people who are not submitted to the Word of God or the elders of a church. They do not have the mind of Christ; they have their own minds. Instead of being of one mind with other believers, they are self-seeking and often have their own agenda. They fail to work together as a team.

When the church, the pulpit, and the pew get united, and God’s people are all of one mind, Christianity is like a red-hot ball rolling over the earth, and all the hosts of death and hell cannot stand before it.
~D.L. Moody~

MONDAY September 30, 2024

My Joy and Crown

Philippians 4:1

Once again, the word therefore refers back to what Paul had previously written to the believers in Philippi. They were to press forward, be like-minded, and follow the Christ-like pattern Paul had set before them––as he, himself, followed Christ. The Philippians were to live in a manner befitting their heavenly citizenship, as they eagerly awaited their Savior’s return.

Despite being under house arrest and unable to be among the fellowship, Paul was able to express his heart to the brethren through his letter. He let them know just how much he loved them. He wrote beautiful words of comfort and endearment. He referred to them as his joy and crown. We can see that Paul longed to be with them, but the peace of God ruled over his heart.

Sadly, when Paul heard of a division in the church, it really broke his heart. He was so saddened to hear that his beloved, Christian friends were disagreeing among themselves. Again, unable to be among them to help the situation, out of concern, he wrote to them this powerful epistle.

Paul knew a conflict like this could destroy the church. The Philippians had started out so well in the faith, and he wanted them to finish strong. He exhorted the believers to stand fast in the Lord. Under these difficult circumstances, they needed the strength and sufficiency of the Lord. The words stand fast or stand firm give a picture of a soldier who remains standing in the heat of a battle. The Philippians were in a spiritual battle, and they needed to unify and stand fast in Christ.

Like Paul, give wise counsel, with biblical authority, to anyone who is causing division. We need to be of the same mind in the church. If you are a person who is critical, divisive, and causes problems in the church, ask the Lord to change your heart. Do not be a problem in the church; be a pillar instead.

There are no crown-wearers in Heaven who were not cross-bearers here below.
~C. H. Spurgeon~

SUNDAY September 29, 2024

Our Heavenly Citizenship

Philippians 3:20-21

Our citizenship is in heaven! So beautiful. Paul was eagerly waiting to see his Savior. What are you waiting for today? Are you eagerly waiting to be with your Lord?

I am looking forward to heaven. In these Last Days, we await the Rapture of the Church. Paul used the context of this event to express what he was waiting for. He spoke of the Rapture and the transformation of our lowly, earthly bodies. The word transform means “to change.” Where does the Bible speak about the Rapture? This sudden event is mentioned in many places in the Bible, but let us read 1 Corinthians 15:51-54 NLT:

But let me reveal to you a wonderful secret. We will not all die, but we will all be transformed! It will happen in a moment, in the blink of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown. For when the trumpet sounds, those who have died will be raised to live forever. And we who are living will also be transformed. For our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die; our mortal bodies must be transformed into immortal bodies. Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die....

There are people who do not believe in the Rapture of the Church, but there will be a generation that will not die! The Lord will come and take them home. These believers will be instantly in the presence of the Lord. The Church will be gone! Can you imagine the fear of all those people left behind?

As Jesus has not yet returned, keep your focus on serving and loving Him until He comes.

The Bible says that as long as we are here on earth, we are strangers in a foreign land. There are enemies to be conquered before we return home. This world is not our home; our citizenship is in heaven.
~Billy Graham~

SATURDAY September 28, 2024

Set Your Mind on Heavenly Things

Philippians 3:19

Paul became very descriptive when he spoke about the Judaizers among the believers in Philippi. He gave the end result of their false doctrine––destruction. Paul told the Philippians plainly, in easy-to-understand terms, these false teachers were going to end up in hell.

In reference to the phrase whose God is their belly, Paul draws attention to their carnal appetites. They were just satisfying themselves. In taking a self-righteous stance among the people, they loved getting all the glory, but it was to their shame. Finally, Paul reveals the focus of their minds: Their minds were set on earthly things, not heavenly things. Paul had uncovered their deception. He marked these men so they could be seen among true believers in the church.

What is your mind set on––earthly things or heavenly things? What are your appetites? Do you crave sexual adventures, drugs or alcohol? These earthly things have an end result––destruction. When you satisfy your worldly appetites, you will end up separated from God for all eternity––you will not be in heaven. Therefore, take heed to Paul’s exhortation in Galatians 5:19-21, and keep in mind, he is addressing Christians:

Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Once again, Paul spoke plainly, in no uncertain terms. Those who practice such sins, as mentioned in these verses, are hell-bound. This is why Paul pointed to how we should be living in Galatians 5:22. As you abide in Christ, your mind will be set on heavenly things.

If you could work your way to heaven, you would said look what I did, I got myself here by my good works. The only way you are going to make it is to come to that Cross.
~Billy Graham~

FRIDAY September 27, 2024

Following Good Examples

Philippians 3:15-18

Paul had already spoken of a believer’s completeness––their spiritual maturity. This happens when they put on the mind of Jesus Christ. He also spoke of their need to be unified. Spirit-filled, mature believers are united by having the same mind.

Paul continued to speak of believers who were also unified by having the same walk. The word walk specifically speaks of “conduct.” Paul encouraged believers to follow his example. Why? He was following Jesus Christ. The Judaizers among them were causing disunity because they followed their own reasoning. These men were self-righteous, sinful and unholy. The Philippians were to mark them; in other words, they needed to discern these ungodly men among them.

Notice Paul’s next important statement: It was the many, not the few, whose walk––conduct––was not fitting the Gospel message. They had become enemies of the Cross of Christ. Judaizers who had infiltrated the Philippian church did not know the power of the Cross. They were living a two-faced life because they were not true followers of Christ. They were among the brethren preaching a false gospel––one of works––not of faith in Christ.

Be careful. There are people in the church who can look and smell like Christians, but they are not. They have their Bibles and speak like Christians, but they are enemies of the Cross––they have a different agenda. True followers of Jesus understand the meaning of His sacrifice on the Cross for their sin. They walk by faith and live a life in submission to Christ. Think about it! Whose walk and example are you following?

The true follower of Christ will not ask, “If I embrace this truth, what will it cost me?” Rather he will say, “This is truth. God help me to walk in it, let come what may!”
~A.W. Tozer~