Philippians 4 “Unity and Charity”

We live in an age of anxiety. The disease of depression affects millions. A sense of helplessness and hopelessness fills our world. Problems are many, answers few. People are searching but still have no sense of purpose, no peace, no happiness, no contentment, no joy. Many are spiritually poor, with no awareness of what is at the root of their problems. Paul declared, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances….I have learned the secret” (4:1112).

He was under house arrest, chained to a Roman guard, awaiting a possible death sentence when he wrote, “I rejoice greatly in the Lord” (4:10) and told others to “rejoice in the Lord always” (4:4). What was the secret?  The goal of his life was to know Christ more and more (3:1011).

He knew whatever happened could bring him closer to the One he longed to be near, help him better know the One he knew and loved already. When your deepest desire is in tune with God’s purpose, when you take your cares to a caring God and leave them there, your ability to cope with life changes, satisfaction rises, relationships improve. All who live in spiritual poverty need to follow Paul’s example. He was a man who lived life to the fullest and had lasting joy despite his circumstances as he sought deeper fellowship with his Lord. Let Paul’s letter to the Philippians teach you how to live a joyful, content life serving the Lord.

Philippians 4 from CBSI Virginia Water on Vimeo.

Philippians 3 “Moving Towards the Goal”

Christ is the supreme model for Paul’s thoughts, words, and actions (2:111). Paul invited believers to “join with others in following my example…and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you” (3:17). Paul wanted to exalt Christ. As believers in Christ, we also are to exalt and imitate Him (Ephesians 5:1). If we follow Christ closely, watch Him carefully, and obey Him willingly, we too will be good role models for others. This is possible only because our righteous Lord dwells in our hearts by faith in Him. You and I have become new creatures in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). Our new nature is “created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:24). Just as parents’ traits are reflected in their children, God our heavenly Father gives His characteristics to us. He has made us His own, and He produces His image in us. Moving toward this goal is an inward process of being changed by the renewing of our thoughts and will as we submit to His Lordship (Romans 12:2).

Philippians 3 from CBSI Virginia Water on Vimeo.

Philippians 2:12-30 “Workers in the Kingdom”

Christians are to live and “work out” the salvation God has given us in Christ. Paul noted the admirable qualities produced when we are obedient to God? however, few people are willing to be servants—of God or of other people. In writing about Timothy, Paul comments, “I have no one else like him, who takes a genuine interest in your welfare. For everyone looks out for his own interests, not those of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 2:2021). Paul obviously did not mean there was no one on whom he could rely at all, for he then mentions Epaphroditus? but he evidently found that many Christians were immature and self-involved.

We can be as self-centered as believers in Paul’s day. However, there is hope? we don’t need to stay that way. God is willing to work in our lives, but the choice is ours. He does not force us? He simply loves us. He offers us all His resources, but we must take what He offers.

Philippians 2:12-30 from CBSI Virginia Water on Vimeo.