Philippians

January 8th – Philippians 3:13-14

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Philippians 3:13-14

One of my resolutions is to grow spiritually and deepen my relationship with the Lord. And that means getting into spiritual shape. Before running a race, an elite athlete puts in the work and dedication needed to condition their bodies, shedding any extra weight that will slow them down. We are elite athletes of God. And to make it to our finish line, we too must put in the work. That means shedding the mistakes and regrets that weigh us down. By having a heart willing to let go and let God, we’ll find the endurance to press on and release the weight of the past. To move toward the glorious future God has lovingly prepared for us of an eternal life spent by His side. And although moving forward isn’t always easy, it is always possible through the grace of Jesus. For in our weakness, He is strong. And it’s His strength which keeps us from getting stuck in mud of yesterday’s setbacks. So release the anchor of the past. And run with freedom, joy, and God’s wonderful promise of a hopeful and purposeful tomorrow.

 

January 8th – Philippians 3:13-14 Read More »

November 22nd – Proverbs 23:18

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Proverbs 23:18

When we’re in the midst of a storm it can be hard to see past the black clouds to the clear skies ahead. But that’s what Solomon encourages us to do. To look beyond our present circumstances, believe in the promises of God, and know that the trial we’re facing isn’t the final chapter. For we serve an omniscient God. One who sees the storm from beginning to end, and walks beside us through every one. This gives us the hope and endurance we need to keep moving forward. To focus on the wonderful future shaped by God’s faithfulness. By trusting in His plans, we build a foundation for enduring challenges with resilience. For our hope is anchored in something greater than momentary trials. And we can approach challenges with a steadfast belief that God’s purposes will prevail. Filling us with a peace beyond human comprehension. (Phil. 4:7) And one that inspires an enduring hope that transcends the ebb and flow of life, and leads to a triumphant future.

November 22nd – Proverbs 23:18 Read More »

September 10th – Philippians 2:5

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Philippians 2:5

“In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus”

In a world ruled by Satan, everyday we are inundated with temptations and sin. That’s why the apostle Paul encourages us to maintain a mindset that aligns with Jesus. The One who humbly served others and remained obedient to God’s will. Keeping our mind on God is crucial. Because it serves as a spiritual anchor in the midst of life’s turbulence. And it provides us with guidance, purpose, and a source of unwavering hope and peace. A mind set on God reinforces our moral compass, encourages positive behavior, and keeps us moving in the right direction on our spiritual journey. It reminds us to continually seek God’s guidance in our thoughts and actions. And to put His will before our own desires. By centering our lives on God and emulating the humility of Christ, we can navigate the challenges of this world. And do so  with grace, compassion, and a deep sense of purpose. Which not only is a powerful testimony to the world, but also ultimately strengthens our relationship with the Lord and others.

September 10th – Philippians 2:5 Read More »

September 4th – Philippians 4:6-7

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Philippians 4:6-7

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

Anxiety and worry go hand in hand with life. Especially as the days grow darker. But that doesn’t mean we have to stay trapped in the swirling cyclone of turmoil. We have a choice. But unfortunately some people get so used to being surrounded by anxiety and drama, without it they feel incomplete. And sadder still, some even thrive on it. But that’s no way for Christians to live. Because God wants to fill every area of our hearts, minds, and lives, with His perfect peace. A peace that surpasses all human understanding. This peace is not dependent on our circumstances. Instead it’s rooted in our relationship with God. It’s a tranquil assurance that He is in control, cares for us deeply, and we can trust His wisdom and love. As long we the earth is our home we will encounter situations that will test our faith and attempt to rattle our peace. But the peace of God is a profound gift. One that calms the storms within us and allows us to face life’s challenges with confidence and a sense of inner serenity.

September 4th – Philippians 4:6-7 Read More »

May 31st – Luke 23:21

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Luke 23:21

Have you ever been disappointed by Jesus? You’re probably saying to yourself right now, “What!?  Of course not!” But if we’re being honest, wouldn’t the answer be yes? Because the truth is, Jesus doesn’t always meet our expectations. He doesn’t promise a life free from suffering, nor to give us what we want. But what He does promise is to be our shelter in the worst of storms, and to provide for our every need. How do you handle the disappointments life throws your way? Do you trust in Jesus, His infinite wisdom, and His love for you? Or like the crowds in Jerusalem do you reject Him, turning away in bitterness and anger? Philippians 4:19 reminds us, “My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Jesus Christ.” As followers of Jesus, we can have confidence that God knows best. And He knows what we need, when we need it. So trust in Him and His great love for you. And when you look back on life’s disappointments, don’t be surprised to find that they are in fact blessings that ended up being far greater than you could have ever expected!

May 31st – Luke 23:21 Read More »

May 30th – Philippians 4:7

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Philippians 4:7

“When Christ died He left a will in which He gave His soul to His Father, His body to Joseph of Arimathea, His clothes to the soldiers, and His mother to John. But to His disciples, who had left all to follow Him, He left not silver or gold, but something far better,  His PEACE!” (Matthew Henry) In this life we will all face trauma, heartache, and pain. Yet as Christians no matter what, we can experience an unshakable inner tranquility. Because when we receive Jesus as our Savior, we also receive the peace of God. A peace that surpasses all human understanding. And one of overwhelming security, serenity, and clarity which goes beyond anything we can comprehend. God’s peace is an impenetrable shield for our hearts and minds. One the Lord gives to guard us against anxiety, fear, and negative thoughts. Are you longing for peace in your life? Through a relationship with Christ Jesus, we can find strength and stability in our inner being, that allows us to face life’s challenges with a sound mind and a steadfast heart.

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May 25th – Philippians 2:3

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Philippians 2:3

We all love a little pat on the back along with acknowledgement and appreciation. But when our own egos become the main focus, no longer are we working for God. Instead we’re working for the pleasing of our own vanity. Jesus, who was fully God, willingly gave up the privileges of deity and, “emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond servant, and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in the appearance of man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” (Phil. 2: 7-8) Christ lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a humiliating, excruciatingly painful death nailed to a Cross. He willingly became our substitute for sin, paying the debt that we owed. All in accordance to the will of God and out of love for us. In light of His great sacrifice, our words and actions should reflect the honor and humility of our Savior.

May 25th – Philippians 2:3 Read More »

May 5th – Philippians 3:13

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Philippians 3:13

We can be our own worst enemies. Always replaying past mistakes in our head, never forgiving ourselves, and feeling too worthless for God. No wonder many believers seem to get stuck in the mud. Always spinning their wheels and unable to move forward. But Jesus made it clear that having a relationship with Him involves growth, change, and action. And the action needed is letting go of our past mistakes and instead focusing on our future. The glorious future planned for us as followers of Christ. We all sin daily, and need God’s forgiveness. And He’ll give it freely and generously when we come to Him in true repentance and sorrow. More than that when we confess, God promises to wipe our slates clean. He’ll remember our sins no more and remove them as far as the east us from the west. (1 John 1:9) So if God can forget our past, who are to remember? All we need to do is learn from our mistakes, and move forward with renewed focus and determination.

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April 6th – Psalm 131:1

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Psalm 131:1

Psalm 131 is a little Psalm that packs a big punch. For in its few lines lies the secret to happiness, success and victory. The secret being humility and contentment. This is victory that I myself so desperately yearn for. Because like David, I too want to have a humble heart before the Lord. I too want to be content, happy, and thankful in all things, placing my complete trust in God alone. David’s message of humility and contentment is a big contradiction to a world that says more is better, and to value ourselves above all others. But as Christians we don’t live like the world. We live like our Lord. And no one exampled humility greater than Jesus. For as it says in Philippians 2:8, “And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” If our Lord could let go of any pride, be content in all things, and trust God completely, so can we.

April 6th – Psalm 131:1 Read More »

March 1st – Philippians 4:1

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Philippians 4:19

An old Indian proverb says, “a harvest of peace grows from seeds of contentment.”  A wonderful but difficult sentiment. Especially in a world that constantly bombards us with images of how we should look and what we should have in order to be happy and successful. Discontentment is one of Satan’s most powerful tools of the trade. He loves for our focus to be on what we don’t have instead of all that we do. But what we want isn’t always what we need. And no one knows that better than God. That’s why He promises to always supply everything we require, not everything we desire. From His abundant grace and love, our Heavenly Father is faithful to meet our needs, both physical and spiritual. And as His children, we can have confidence in His faithfulness goodness, love, and provision.

 

March 1st – Philippians 4:1 Read More »