THURSDAY September 12, 2024

Stop Complaining

Philippians 2:14-15

Paul exhorted the Philippians in another area that they were miserably failing in––complaining and disputing. In the days of Moses in the wilderness, among God’s people there were many complainers. He had miraculously delivered His people! In the mixed multitude, God judged those who complained. They never made it to the Promised Land. Instead, they perished in the wilderness:

Now when the people complained, it displeased the LORD; for the LORD heard it, and His anger was aroused. So the fire of the LORD burned among them, and consumed some in the outskirts of the camp. Then the people cried out to Moses, and when Moses prayed to the LORD, the fire was quenched. So he called the name of the place Taberah, because the fire of the LORD had burned among them (Numbers 11:1-3).

Complaining is a sin before the Lord. Whatever you are facing in life, do not complain and go around with a frown on your face. Other people can hear when you murmur and complain with your lips. It is not a good witness to them; it will make them stumble. They can see that your attitude stinks. When you serve the Lord, in the church, at home, or on the job, have the right attitude––do not complain. Do your service as unto the Lord––to please God. He is the One who will reward you.

Think about it. God is always watching to see if He can trust you with a smaller duty before promoting you to do something bigger for Him. Serve the Lord with joy in your heart. That will be a great witness among the congregation. In the world, shine as lights for those in the darkness who do not know Christ.

If we complain less, and praise God more, we should be happier.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

WEDNESDAY September 11, 2024

Patriot Day

Psalm 34:18

Many hearts were broken and crushed on September 11, 2001. We must never forget what happened––it is a day that lives on in infamy. Today marks the 23rd anniversary of the September 11th attacks, when people watched in utter horror as two of four hijacked planes were flown into the Twin Towers at the World Trade Centre in New York City.

Another two hijacked planes flew toward their targets. One intentionally crashed into the Pentagon, killing 184 people, while the other, it is believed, was rapidly heading in the direction of the White House. Brave passengers and crew sought to regain control of the plane, which eventually crashed into a field in Pennsylvania. These suicide terror attacks were attributed to al-Qaeda Islamic extremists.

In one tragic day, nearly 3,000 Americans were killed. Innocent men, women and children died because of a hate-based ideology. By a joint resolution approved on December 18, 2021, Congress designated September 11 of each year as “Patriot Day” and requested the observance be annually recognized as “National Day of Service and Remembrance.”

Located on the very site of the former World Trade Centre complex is the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. It honors the many lives of those who were lost. The Pentagon Memorial was also created to honor those who died. These places have become a reminder to future generations not to forget their faith in God, and to always fight to uphold the values that citizens of a free world share.

As Christians, it is our duty to continue to pray for the families who have continued to endure such great grief. We also need to pray for God’s protection over our land. We are living in the Last Days, and times are tough. There are people who are just plain evil. Lawlessness and violence cover our land. With open borders, something like this could happen again. As Christians, we need to get on our knees and pray.

Please join me in praying for America, that we will turn our hearts back toward God.
~Billy Graham~

TUESDAY September 10, 2024

Obedience

Philippians 2:12-13

Paul was having a difficult time, because he would have liked to visit the Philippian church; but in his absence, he continued to exhort them to remain in unity and live in obedience to the Gospel. Paul was not asking the believers in Philippi to reach for the stars. He set before them a divine pattern––to have the mind of Christ.

As Christians, we are to submit our lives to Jesus Christ and rely on the divine power of God to accomplish the task, for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. Notice, it is God who works in us and through us. We can do nothing in our own strength.

Then we come to the next verse that many people take out of context. They think what Paul is saying is that we are saved by works; not so, we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus––period. What they have forgotten to read is the next verse: ...for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. Place these two verses in Philippians together and you see salvation is a work of God, not man. Ephesians 2:8-10 makes clear the case for God’s grace through faith for our salvation:

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. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

As we become active in serving in the church, we naturally begin to produce spiritual fruit. Our works come from a desire to serve Him, because we love Him. Understand, our works do not save us––it does not work that way. We have accepted the Gospel of grace, by faith.

Revival is a renewed conviction of sin and repentance, followed by an intense desire to live in obedience to God. It is giving up one's will to God in deep humility.
~Charles Finney~

MONDAY September 9, 2024

The Exaltation of Christ

Philippians 2:9-11

Therefore refers to everything we have just studied about Christ––His Incarnation and humble obedience to sacrifice Himself on the Cross for our sins. Then Paul spoke of the exaltation of Christ. When God the Father saw His Son’s complete obedience to His will, He lifted Him up and gave Him the name which is above every name....

Jesus is an incredible name! Jesus in Hebrew translates to Joshua; it is a name which means “Yahweh saves” or “Yahweh is salvation.” In Isaiah 9:6-7, there is written a succession of names that are attributed to Jesus. They reveal His divine nature which rests upon His exalted position:

For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity....

This is a prophecy about Jesus, the Son of God, born of a virgin––Mary. It shows to us His humanity and deity. These names also show His divine attributes in the work of God and His power as God Himself.

He is called Wonderful Counselor, which translates: “a marvel of a counselor” or “wonderful counselor” (a Messianic King). Jesus, as our Mighty God, translates to “a might hero.” As the Everlasting Father, this speaks of His benevolence and protection toward us, His children.

The name Prince of Peace is the word “Commander.” We are to be in submission to our Commander and Chief and to take orders from Him. Knowing Him by name, have you bowed your knee to Jesus today?

Let my name die everywhere, let even my friends forget me, if by that means the cause of the blessed Jesus may be promoted.
~George Whitefield~

SUNDAY September 8, 2024

The Death of the Cross

Philippians 2:8

Jesus did not have to take the body of a man, but He wanted to relate to us––to our everyday trials and struggles. He proved His love for us by His actions. He humbled Himself and, being obedient to His Father’s will, died on the Cross for the sins of the world. Listen to His struggle as He prayed:

He went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying, “My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine” (Matthew 26:39 NLT).

In His Servanthood to Mankind, the cost was high––it cost Him His life. Like Christ, can you be a servant? You may not have to give your life for someone, but what about doing something simple? Can you be a servant and empty everyone’s trash at work? People might ask you, “Why are you doing this?” You can simply respond, “I just desire to serve you.” Continue to place others first––serve them––it can help them come to know Christ.

In serving others, we are learning to be like Jesus. Seriously, if you do not love people, how can you serve them? You cannot because you do not have the right heart. Have the heart of Jesus, His love and compassion, so that even when you go through the valley and suffer, as you continue to serve people, they will see Christ in you because of your faithful witness.

When God sees your obedience to His Word, He will be the One to lift you up. The Bible encourages us: ...humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor (1 Peter 5:6-7 NLT). Another Scripture shows the sovereignty of God in exalting or humbling a person: For exaltation comes neither from the east nor from the west nor from the south. But God is the Judge: He puts down one, and exalts another (Psalm 75:6-7). If God exalts you, keep in mind it is to serve and minister to others.

Obedience to God's will is the secret of spiritual knowledge and insight. It is not willingness to know, but willingness to DO (obey) God's will that brings certainty.
~Eric Liddell~

SATURDAY September 7, 2024

The Deity of Jesus Christ

Philippians 2:5-7 NLT

This passage is about the deity of Jesus Christ. He did not lose His deity when He humbled Himself to take human form. He literally “emptied self.” Again, He never lost His deity. Jesus is God. He came from eternity––from heavenly places to a lowly place––earth. Our Lord came in humility, to serve us and to die for us.

Jesus took upon Himself the form of a bondservant. In Mark 10:45, He expressed His Servanthood to Mankind: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” The Jews rejected Him as their Messiah. He knew this would happen, and that one day He would be betrayed and handed over to sinners. He was fully aware that they would spit on Him, whip Him, crucify Him––kill Him.

The Son of God knew He would feel agonizing pain, yet He willingly humbled Himself to die on the Cross for our sin. Jesus Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords, humbled Himself, and then God exalted Him:

Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:9-11).

Consider the depth of Paul’s exhortation to us. As Christians, we are to have the same mind and attitude of Christ.

Without question, this is the great mystery of our faith: Christ was revealed in a human body and vindicated by the Spirit. He was seen by angels and announced to the nations. He was believed in throughout the world and taken to heaven in glory.
~1 Timothy 3:16 NLT~

FRIDAY September 6, 2024

Having the Mind of Christ

Philippians 2:5-7

This is one of the greatest and most moving passages in the Bible. It is all about Jesus Christ. His mind should be our mental attitude when serving other people. Who are we to be like? Christ. This is key to our mindset.

Many scholars have noted that our Lord had a submissive mind, a serving mind, a selfless mind, and a sacrificial mind. In Hebrews 10:9-10, we see that Jesus submitted Himself to the will of His Father:

...then He [Jesus] said, “Behold, I have come to do Your will, O God.” He takes away the first that He may establish the second. By that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

Jesus had a serving mind: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).

He gave His life on the Cross to pay the price for our salvation. In doing so, He had a selfless mind. Jesus was prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice. In Hebrews 9:26-28, we see the sacrificial mind of Christ: ...but now ... He [Jesus] has appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment, so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many....

As a Christian, you are called to have the same mind of Christ. What same traits are you to have in the actions described in Romans 12:1-2 NIV?

...offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is....

We need, men so possessed by the Spirit of God that God can think His thoughts through [their] minds....
~Alan Redpath~

THURSDAY September 5, 2024

How to Esteem Others

Philippians 2:3-4

Paul continued to appeal to the believers in Philippi. He encouraged them to esteem others and not tear them down with their words. The imminent threat to their spiritual growth was disunity from within the church.

As believers in Christ, they had a duty to encourage, love, and act with compassion toward their brothers and sisters in the church. For unity’s sake, they must get along with each other. Paul helped them to recognize that if two of them were arguing, there was pride in their hearts. This could be easily solved. In relation to one another, they needed to humble themselves, forgive, and be peacemakers.

In the church, we are to watch out for others. Listen, place Jesus first, then others, and yourself last. Esteem others better than yourself. This brings unity; it is the result of humility. If Christians submit themselves to the Holy Spirit, and He rules and governs their lives, then there will be unity.

A person with selfish ambition desires to advance themselves. They are self-seeking and conceited––prideful and arrogant. This is not how we should be. Our example is Christ. In His humility, He looked to the interest of others.

Are you guilty of doing things for your own interests? Do you crave position and power––to be great? It is not like that in the Kingdom of God. Jesus taught His disciples servanthood. He is the King of kings, but He walked among us in humility as He served humanity. In John 13:13-15, Jesus set an example for His disciples to follow:

“You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.”

Do you have the right concept of Christianity?

James and John wanted the glory, but not the cup of shame; the crown, but not the cross; the role of master, but not servant.
~J. Oswald Sanders~

WEDNESDAY September 4, 2024

Fulfill My Joy

Philippians 2:1-2

Paul had another reason to write to the Philippians. In his absence, they were beginning to become divided against each other. To correct the situation, he issued a direct command––fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. They needed to be unified.

The Philippians had filled Paul’s life with joy. He was very excited about their salvation, their devotion to the Lord, and even their financial giving. They were growing in Christ, but his excitement diminished once he heard about a growing disunity among them.

Disunity causes heartache. When people are divided and not united, the body of Christ suffers. Listen, we can have our differences of opinion, but God never wants us to be divided against one another––there must be unity, not disunity.

In the book of 1 Corinthians, Paul also dealt with the subject of division. If you are causing division in the body of Christ, heed his exhortation:

I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought (1 Corinthians 1:10 NIV).

What kind of mind are we supposed to have? We are to have the mind of Christ––a mind of love and unity––not disunity. Many times, people cause division because they are not filled with God’s Spirit. They act according to their flesh––wanting to get their own way. They want to win. Disgruntled, they sow discord by putting other people down.

It is not a matter of who is right or wrong. There needs to be a purposeful working together in unity. Submit to God and be humble. Do you want God’s blessing in your life? Then do not divide the body of Christ.

Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!
~Psalm 133:1~

TUESDAY September 3, 2024

Joy in Like-mindedness

Philippians 2:1-2

Paul used the word therefore, which took the believers back to what he had previously said in Philippians 1. They were to walk worthy of the Gospel––in unity. Paul had joy while under house arrest because he took comfort knowing the believers in Philippi were growing in Christ. Sadly, he received news of a division in the church. They were supposed to be united––standing fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel (Philippians 1:27).

Paul again exhorted them to be like-minded. He would begin to point them to Christ’s example of humility and sacrifice. Jesus became a Man. He was falsely accused and mistreated––He took 39 stripes! When a Roman soldier whipped a prisoner, each time they confessed their sin, but the Son of Man had no sin. Jesus knew He would be arrested and crucified, but He had joy. The Scriptures reveal the reason He was so full of joy:

...who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God... (Hebrews 12:2).

Do you have joy in suffering? Trials can so easily rob you of your joy. As joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), it comes from within, whereas happiness depends on your outward circumstances. God desires that you have joy in your life:

John 15:11 NLT: I [Jesus] have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!

Romans 15:13: I [Paul] pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him...

There may be difficult people in your life, and they become a thorn in your side. They can really get to you, but do not let them rob you of your joy.

For the Christian, there can be joy in the midst of suffering, joy that transcends the pain of the moment.
~R.C. Sproul~

MONDAY September 2, 2024

Labor Day

Genesis 3:17 NASB

Since the beginning of time in the Garden of Eden, the Bible reveals the consequences of what is commonly known as the Fall of Mankind. The seduction of the serpent caused our parents, Adam and Eve, to sin. The ground became cursed, and since then, work has become a terrible toil. Men sweat and endure hard labor to make a living to provide for their homes and families.

Labor Day is a federal holiday that is observed on the first Monday in September. It is a time of tribute to the many achievements of American workers and is often celebrated with city parades. Families generally get together and have barbeques and relax.

The first Labor Day in history was celebrated on Tuesday, September 5, 1882, in New York City, in agreement with the proposals of the Central Labor Union. Later, other states followed suit. Finally, President Grover Cleveland signed a law making the first Monday in September of each year a national holiday.

Labor Day has been considered to be the unofficial end of summer. Nowadays, schools have already started, and the calendar is in full swing with school activities. Most people have already taken their summer vacations and have gone back to their work routine. The weather in the mornings and evenings will grow cooler, and people’s thoughts lean toward other holidays, such as Thanksgiving and even Christmas!

The yearly calendar moves very fast, so take time to enjoy this year’s Labor Day. Relax and put your feet up. Take time to rest from all your hard labor and be blessed by all God has given you––your family and home.

Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil—this is a gift of God.
~Ecclesiastes 5:19 NIV~

SUNDAY September 1, 2024

Suffering for Christ’s Sake

Philippians 1:28-30

Paul was a man unafraid of his enemies. He was full of courage because he feared God, not man. Therefore, he could boldly tell his friends in the faith not to be afraid of their adversaries. Paul knew the beginning from the end. Christians were assured of a future––eternal life. There was no eternal hope for the non-believer. They had no future; they were going to perish in their sin.

Paul wanted to reassure the brethren that he identified with them. He was just like them––subject to suffer for Christ. He shared in their same conflict. He used his circumstances to bring comfort to the believers in Philippi. Paul was unmoved––steadfast in his faith. His attitude was remarkable; he remained rejoicing in the Lord, knowing his circumstances were only temporal. One day, in the future, eternal life will be assured. He became such an example of endurance and perseverance in the Christian faith.

As you continue to abide and stand fast in your faith, be aware that trials and tribulation will come. You may not care for this, but consider the reality of what Paul continued to say, For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him.... “Wait a minute,” you may say, “I have to suffer for Christ?” At times, yes.

Look at Paul’s life. It was not a bed of roses; he suffered tremendously. Be steadfast, not only in good times, but when you face adversity. God has His purpose for allowing any suffering in your life. It is during these difficult times that you will draw closer to God. You are never alone in your suffering––God is with you. Remember, suffering is only for a little while; one day, you, too, are going to be in God’s presence.

I am certain that I never did grow in grace one-half so much anywhere as I have upon the bed of pain.
~Charles Spurgeon~

SATURDAY August 31, 2024

Is Your Conduct Worthy of the Gospel?

Philippians 1:27

Paul gave a strong exhortation to his beloved brethren in the faith. He urged them to have a conduct worthy of the Gospel. His words would have caused the believers in Philippi to examine their lives. Was their conduct worthy of the Gospel of Christ?

As an Apostle and leader of the Christian faith, Paul also called the Philippians to stand fast in one spirit.... Whether Paul was present with them or absent, it did not matter; but what did concern him was that they were in unity, with one mind, working together for the sake of the Gospel. His charge was to be taken seriously. The word striving means “to strive at the same time with another.” Again, Paul desired a steadfastness in striving for church unity.

Paul also wanted to hear that they were living in holiness and purity. The Holy Spirit was to govern their lives, not any carnal, fleshly desire, as this would cause disunity in the church.

Paul’s words need to resonate within our own hearts. Take his charge with all seriousness. Stop to pray and examine your own life in light of his exhortation. Honestly, before the Lord, is your conduct worthy of the Gospel? Only you can answer that question.

Do you see behaviors that are not fitting in your Christian walk? What has God revealed to you personally? In what areas do you need to make a change? Ask the Lord to help you get rid of anything that is hindering your progress in Christ. God desires that you walk in holiness, in unity, as you strive together with other believers for the faith of the Gospel.

It is impossible to conduct your life as a disciple without definite times of secret prayer.
~Oswald Chambers~

FRIDAY August 30, 2024

Christian Progress

Philippians 1:25-26

Paul continued his work in the ministry. Being under house arrest did not stop him from serving the Lord. Perhaps he anticipated that he would be around for a longer time, as he was given so much liberty in his current circumstances. It was not his time to depart from the world and go be with the Lord.

The Philippian church was a newly established ministry with many new believers in Christ. Paul wanted to make sure they were progressing in their spiritual growth––in their progress and joy of faith. Paul had a teaching ministry, and his time was used wisely to write letters of encouragement. He established healthy, biblical doctrine and gave them many other exhortations. He had much to do.

We can see Paul’s heart toward the Philippians. He wanted to see them again, if the Lord permitted. Although this was his desire, he did not know if this journey would ever happen. It was all in the Lord’s hands. Paul remained in harmony with the Lord’s will.

If you are a new believer, it is important that you continue to grow in Christ. It is essential to read God’s Word, pray, fellowship with other believers, and share your faith. We must guard against becoming stagnant in our Christian walk. We are to progress no matter how long we have known the Lord. The life of a Christian has to be in harmony with God’s will. Are you continuing to progress in your spiritual growth?

...grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
~2 Peter 3:18~

THURSDAY August 29, 2024

A Hard-pressed Desire

Philippians 1:23-24

Paul struggled with mixed emotions. He was hard-pressed. Why? He desired to be with the Lord, but he knew God’s will was for him to remain. There was still a purpose for his life. Believers in Christ still needed to be ministered to.

Paul told the Philippians, “I am remaining here for you!” Again, he would love to be in the presence of the Lord, but it was not yet his time to go to heaven. God had him right where He wanted him. Paul knew in his heart that one day in the future, he would go be with the Lord. It was all according to God’s plan and purpose for his life.

This is the same for all of us. One day, when our work for God is finished, we shall go be with the Lord in heaven; but for now, we need to take full advantage of the days, hours, minutes and seconds that He has given us. God still has a purpose for our lives. Consider the reason why God is keeping us here. It could be for more time given to us to minister to our children, grandchildren, or whoever else is around us. Believe me, when God is finished with you, then He will take you home––you will be gone!

Right now, God still has a purpose for your life. One of the main purposes is to be a witness to everyone you know. Share your faith with people so they can come to know the Lord. Let them see your sincere love for Christ and your love for them. May they observe your Christian witness––your worthy conduct and your integrity.

If I find in myself desires which nothing in this world can satisfy, the only logical explanation is that I was made for another world.
~C.S. Lewis~

WEDNESDAY August 28, 2024

To Live Is Christ, to Die Is Gain

Philippians 1:21-22

Paul believed that the moment he died, he would be in the presence of God. He knew his body was just a tent that housed his spirit. In heaven, he would receive a new body:

For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed with our habitation which is from heaven (2 Corinthians 5:1-2).

There are many Christians who do not like the subject of death. They will say, “Please do not talk about that; I am afraid of death.” If I could take you into the presence of God for five seconds, you would never want to come back here! I can hardly wait! Heaven is going to be incredible.

Paul was willing to live or die for Christ. That was his priority. Nothing in this world is to take priority over Jesus Christ––not your wife, your children, your money, your sports car, or your credit cards. If you can say like Paul, “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain,” then you have your priorities right––you really love our Lord Jesus Christ. Continue to live this truth.

However, if a person lives in the flesh––according to their carnal desires––they will die in their sin. Those who do not trust Christ for salvation have no spiritual fruit. All they labor for is temporal––everything they have worked for in life will burn. They have no spiritual dividends in heaven.

In this life, Christians are to serve Christ. In doing so, they are sowing eternally––having eternal fruit for their labor. They are making investments in the bank in heaven that cannot be taken away from them.

When we come to Christ, we’re no longer the most important person in the world to us; Christ is. Instead of living only for ourselves, we have a higher goal: to live for Jesus.
~Billy Graham~

TUESDAY August 27, 2024

Christ Be Magnified

Philippians 1:19-20

Paul was assured of his deliverance. To be clear, the word deliverance is a reference to the Greek translation for salvation. It can also be translated as “well-being” or “escape.” Therefore, we can conclude that what Paul said can refer to his salvation; his freedom from his current situation under house arrest, or his deliverance from Roman execution. Although we cannot be completely sure of what Paul intended when he wrote these verses to the Philippians, he seemed to know, one way or the other, that freedom would ultimately be his.

In his current circumstances, Paul had a firm confidence placed in an eternal hope. He described it as an earnest expectation and hope. In the Greek language, we are given a picture of “a watching with outstretched hands with the attention concentrated on one object and turned away from all other objects.” His focus was solely on his hope in Jesus Christ––nothing else––not his circumstances.

Whether Paul lived or died, he knew Christ would be magnified. This was his consuming passion––to magnify Christ by any means. Is this your consuming passion? In this life, have you fixed your eyes upon your eternal hope? The object of your Christianity is to have your life revolve around Him, whether you live or die. Christ needs to be everything to you.

Let all those who seek You rejoice and be glad in You; let such as love Your salvation say continually, the LORD be magnified!
~Psalm 40:16~

MONDAY August 26, 2024

Rejoice, Yes, Rejoice!

Philippians 1:15-18

Paul knew of men who preached the Gospel for their own purposes. He preached God’s Word out of love with a pure heart. He had a call to preach the Gospel. Paul genuinely cared for where people were going to spend eternity. Yet he rejoiced knowing that whoever preached God’s Word, even with false motives, the Word had power to transform lives.

If Christ was preached by pretense, His Word would not come back void. It would take root in people’s lives. Paul knew what the prophet Isaiah wrote about the power of God’s Word:

So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it (Isaiah 55:11).

Paul had a perfect mindset about his preaching. As he was appointed by God to preach, he took the responsibility seriously:

For if I preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast of, for necessity is laid upon me; yes, woe is me if I do not preach the gospel! For if I do this willingly, I have a reward; but if against my will, I have been entrusted with a stewardship. What is my reward then? That when I preach the gospel, I may present the gospel of Christ without charge, that I may not abuse my authority in the gospel (1 Corinthians 9:16-18).

Today, we have the same issue. There are preachers who have false motivations in preaching the Gospel. I have seen, and maybe you have too, TV evangelists who preach for money and fame. Like Paul, I preach God’s Word because of the love of Christ––it burns inside of me. It brings me joy to see people respond to the message of Jesus Christ.

...Whenever a day comes when I see men and women coming down the aisles without joy in my heart, I’ll quit preaching.
~Billy Sunday~

SUNDAY August 25, 2024

Speak God’s Word With Boldness

Philippians 1:13-14

Paul knew his imprisonment was all for the glory of God. The Gospel still was getting out. God’s Word was not bound. Under house arrest, Paul remained a great witness for Jesus Christ. The Lord had divinely appointed him to preach the message of salvation. The guards knew the Apostle was a proclaimer of the Gospel. Imagine, Caesar’s bodyguards–– his elite, Praetorian guards––were being led, one by one, to know Jesus Christ.

Paul’s chains influenced the lives of most believers. Seeing Paul’s bold confidence and courage as a prisoner of Rome, in turn, made them extremely bold as they shared their testimonies. Christians everywhere were becoming bolder in their witnessing and fearless in the face of adversity. They were not afraid of anything.

Do people around you know you as a proclaimer of the Gospel? Are you a bold witness? Have you shared the truth with them about Jesus Christ? I have found that as people grow older in the Lord, they can become more conservative––lackadaisical. They stop sharing their faith with others, whereas with a new believer, you can hardly keep them quiet. They are so zealous and look for every opportunity to share their faith.

As Christians, we cannot reach a place where we stop sharing the Gospel. We have to practice our faith. We are called by God to witness to others. The Gospel message cannot be just head knowledge. Neither are we to keep the treasure of the Gospel hidden. It has been said, “We cannot be so heavenly minded that we are no earthly good.” Be aware of God’s purpose and will in your circumstances and surroundings. Look for opportunities to share the Gospel in the gym, coffee houses, and the workplace.

What is your story? Be ready to share it when the Lord gives you the opportunity.
~Billy Graham~

SATURDAY August 24, 2024

A Christian’s Joy

Philippians 1:12

In God’s wisdom and sovereignty, He deliberately designed that His servant Paul would go through his present circumstances. Even though the situation was undesirable, He knew Paul’s life would bring Him glory and honor. In the face of adversity, Paul had an unshakable faith because he knew this to be true––his life was to be used to glorify God.

While under house arrest, Paul did not feel sorry for himself––he made the best of it. He did not want others to feel sorry for him either. He had an unbreakable joy! This was the theme in writing to the Philippians––joy. His letter was an encouragement for all those who might find themselves in a similar situation. If arrested, God’s joy would be their strength.

Some Christians look at their situations and they begin to feel sorry for themselves; but they need to grow spiritually by trusting in the Lord. That is why it is important to read Bible stories and to study how people in the past coped. How were they able to bear their circumstances? In what ways did they fail or succeed? In 1 Corinthians 10:11, we are encouraged to learn from past experiences: Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition.... We can glean so much from these lessons. Apply what you have learned to your life so that you do not make the same mistakes.

Paul knew the Word of God––all the Old Testament stories. He had spent quality time with the Lord and had received a great education from Him. As a scholar of the Scriptures, he knew the beginning from the end. It was not head knowledge, but heart knowledge. Knowing the truth of the Gospel gave him confidence and courage. He had an eternal hope.

What is your prison today? It might not be a literal prison, but your circumstances may make you feel imprisoned in your home, at work, or wherever else you sense you are bound. Know this: God is sovereign.

The truest, purest joy flows from a discovery of Jesus Christ. He is the hidden treasure that gives such joy to the finder....
~Robert Murray McCheyne~

FRIDAY August 23, 2024

The Furtherance of the Gospel

Philippians 1:12-14

In Philippians 1:1-11, we have studied Paul’s thanksgiving and prayer for the church in Philippi. He now speaks of his imprisonment in the beautiful, big city of Rome. Under house arrest, Paul had the understanding that he was a prisoner of Jesus Christ––he was His servant––amazing. Paul wanted to convince his readers to see that, even though imprisoned and under the care of palace guards, nothing in his life was by coincidence. God was using everything for the furtherance of the Gospel.

Paul used every opportunity God gave him. Whenever there was a change in guard, he shared the Gospel with that man. Many Roman guards became born again! You see, Paul was not looking at his circumstances, and even though he knew he would eventually die because of his commitment to Jesus Christ, he cared more about people’s eternity. Do you care where people spend eternity? If you do, then never give up on them. Continue to pray and love them.

In life, nothing happens by coincidence. People struggle with terrible circumstances and tragedies that God has allowed in their lives, but He will use these events to draw them closer to Him. God is at work in these dire situations in people’s lives. Oftentimes, they may not understand the “whys” of life until they get to heaven; but know this one thing: God is at work in our lives until we become glorified with Jesus Christ in heaven.

We all go through trials and temptations that become part of our testimony. When people face what you have already faced, you are equipped to share with them God’s comfort and purposes.

God's plan for enlarging His kingdom is so simple - one person telling another about the Savior. ... Just remember, someone's eternal destiny is at stake. The joy you'll have when you meet that person in heaven will far exceed any discomfort you felt in sharing the gospel.
~Charles Stanley~

THURSDAY August 22, 2024

Fruits of Righteousness

Philippians 1:9-11

There are four specific things Paul prayed for the believers in Philippi. He prayed for an abounding love––the agape love of God––to be evident in their lives. Their love needed to abound––grow more and more. He knew the sinful nature of man––how we can be in the Spirit, loving people one day and not so loving the next. God’s love is a sacrificial and fervent love. Everything we do has to be foundational on the love of God. Among believers, God’s love is the most important spiritual fruit in the church: But the fruit of the Spirit is love... (Galatians 5:22).

Paul wanted the Philippians to understand that, even if they had the spiritual gifts of knowledge and discernment, these would mean nothing if not exercised in love. Love is the greatest spiritual gift. In the book of 1 Corinthians, Paul expounded on this truth: And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing (1 Corinthians 13:2).

How do non-believers know that we are Christians? It is not by our car stickers or our Bibles––it is only through Christ’s love. Jesus said: “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” Love must shine right through us. We also need God’s discernment to know right from wrong, falsehood from truth.

Christians are to be sincere and without offense. The word sincere means “without fault.” Do not be a phony or a hypocrite. We need to have a righteous character that glorifies Christ: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). All these are fruits of righteousness in your life.

The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise.
~Proverbs 11:30~

WEDNESDAY August 21, 2024

Partakers of God’s Grace

Philippians 1:7-8

Look how beautiful! I love this verse and what was expressed from Paul’s heart. His letter showed his shepherd’s heart for the people. He loved and cared for them. He thought about them all the time. He wished he could be with them, but he could not. He was in chains waiting for the opportunity to share the Gospel of grace with Caesar Nero. So for two, whole years, Paul wrote his epistles and shared his thoughts and actions with those who mattered to him most. His priority was to share the grace of God with them all.

God witnessed Paul’s pure heart. He had such a genuine affection for the believers in Philippi. Do you know what the word affection means? It denotes “tender mercies” and is prompted by the same love as Jesus Christ has for the Church.

Paul had such an intense desire to be with the believers in Philippi, especially as he reflected back on his days of fellowship with them. Most importantly, Paul reflected on Jesus as his Savior. This is what kept him moving forward in his call to preach the Gospel.

What should we be doing as Christians? We should have an intense desire to share the grace of God with others. How we need to share His grace, love and mercy with those who need it, no matter our circumstances. As we do, the results will be tremendous. Lost souls will come to know God.

We are living in an age of grace, in which God promises that ‘whosoever will’ may come and receive His Son. But this period of grace will not go on indefinitely. We are even now living on borrowed time.
~Billy Graham~

TUESDAY August 20, 2024

What God Starts, He Will Complete

Philippians 1:6

Paul had great confidence in all the believers’ futures in Philippi. He knew that as God had begun a good work in their lives, He would complete His work in them. Paul had an unwavering confidence because his confidence was in God. Without any doubt, he gave believers an utmost assurance that God would always be with them.

This is a Scripture you can underline in your Bible because this is also a sure promise for you! If God has begun a good work in your life, He is never going to forsake you––never––ever. God will not give up on you as long as you do not give up on Him. Abide in Him, and He will remain with you! John 15:4 simply gives us this truth: “Abide in Me, and I in you.”

God will work in your life until the very day you die and stand in His presence! Again, God will not give up on you. He will complete the work that He has promised He would do. What does that tell you about Him? God is faithful! He will use you to the very end of your life. Continue to seek Him; He will be faithful to finish the work He has started in you.

It is important to understand how God began His work in your life. It began with the work of salvation. It all started when you placed your faith and trust in Jesus Christ. Salvation is the free gift of God, and it is a supernatural work. It is the process by which the child of God goes though regeneration, justification, sanctification, and finally glorification.

If you do not know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, all you have to do is repent of your sin, confess, and accept Him. So simple and so easy. Will you accept the gift of salvation God has offered to you? If you do, He will fill you with His joy as you become a brand-new person.

Sanctification is the outcome and inseparable consequence of regeneration. He who is born again and made a new creature receives a new nature and a new principle and always lives a new life.
~J. C. Ryle~

MONDAY August 19, 2024

Joy in Fellowship

Philippians 1:3-5

In Paul’s prayer, we see his joy in the Lord. Joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit: ...the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). He is Spirit controlled. Paul prayed in the Spirit with a true focus on all those he was interceding for. I have to ask you, is joy evident in your prayer life?

It is essential to find a quiet place to pray, just to be alone with you and the Lord. In times of prayer, I like to lock myself up in my office or take a nice, long walk to spend time with God. Find your own special place to go be alone with God and pray.

In Philippians 1:5, it is believed there were circumstances that Paul and other believers in Philippi were facing together for the sake of the Gospel: ...for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now.... It may also have been that this verse was in reference to those in the church who were financially helping Paul. He never asked for any money, but he prayed, and God touched the hearts of people in Philippi, and they sent help for his needs. Did you know that through sharing financially with the poor, you join in fellowship with those in need?

In our trials and suffering, there is a oneness in fellowship with Christ and His Holy Spirit, as Paul stated in Philippians 3:10-11:

...that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, if, by any means, I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.

The joy of fellowship is experienced with one another at church. It is so important, and we need it––it brings spiritual growth and joy.

There is a brotherhood within the body of believers, and the Lord Jesus Christ is the common denominator. Friendship and fellowship are the legal tender among believers.
~J. Vernon McGee~

SUNDAY August 18, 2024

Thankfulness

Philippians 1:3-5

The Apostle Paul was so thankful to God for all the different people who worked with him. His prayer for them was personal and constant. He addressed his prayer to God––I thank my God. His prayer life was rich because it was from his memory––all the many missionary journeys and the different souls he met along the way. He never forgot these precious people. Those he met in Philippi were etched on his mind and heart, and it brought him so much joy as he thought about them and prayed for them.

Notice the subject of thankfulness. We are to be a thankful people. There is so much to be thankful for. I thank God for all the leaders who assist me in the ministry and for the people and children attending our church. I feel like the most blessed pastor in the whole world! I have an immediate family, but I have a much bigger family in Christ. I would not trade this for anything else in the whole world. It is such a blessing to serve the Lord and to have a big family to belong to. There are so many people we love, and they love us too.

Those of you who work outside the church, be thankful for the people God has brought your way. Be thankful for the friends that you have made in your workplace, those who bring you joy. Even if there are people you do not like or get along with that well, pray for them and still be thankful.

People really do count on us to pray for them. There are too many Christians who say they will pray for somebody, but then they forget. Make it a habit to stop and pray with those who ask for prayer. Write prayer requests down and make time to pray for people. As a church, we gather together and pray because we want God to do a tremendous work in the lives of the congregation and the world. People are going through all kinds of crises; they need to be remembered in prayer and not forgotten.

God is in control, and therefore in everything I can give thanks.
~Kay Arthur~