Main Point and Overview:
Sometimes it is hard to put into words the feelings that we have for someone. That person means so much to us because of his or her gracious and selfless love for us. When that person comes to mind, a smile comes over our face, our eyes begin to “tear up”, and we are filled with deep affection. That was exactly how the Apostle Paul felt about the Philippians. Even finding himself in a Roman prison could not sway his heart away from dwelling on his special friends. They had been faithful to provide for him when no one else did. They had been faithful to continue the work of Jesus when they could have easily quit under the pressure. Filled with gratitude and joy, Paul decided to write them a letter to tell them of his affection while attempting to inspire their continued commitment to Jesus Christ. This is the beginning of that letter. For you and me, we must ask ourselves “what kind of teammate are we” for the Gospel? Do others in our church have the same affection for us when they consider our selfless service to them, those in our community, and most importantly, Jesus Christ? As Paul reflected on his friends, he also took the time to inspire them to continued growth. Times were tough. Pressure was mounting against the truth. Resolve that was filled with both knowledge and discernment was needed. So, he prayed for them that they would experience these maturing traits. What about you and me – are we praying for one another? Are we encouraging one another? Are we filled with the same kind of joy that Paul experienced when we consider the blessed partnership that we have with each other? May we take this “teamwork” aspect of ministry so seriously that it causes the same emotional affection in others that Paul had for the Philippians.
Sometimes it is hard to put into words the feelings that we have for someone. That person means so much to us because of his or her gracious and selfless love for us. When that person comes to mind, a smile comes over our face, our eyes begin to “tear up”, and we are filled with deep affection. That was exactly how the Apostle Paul felt about the Philippians. Even finding himself in a Roman prison could not sway his heart away from dwelling on his special friends. They had been faithful to provide for him when no one else did. They had been faithful to continue the work of Jesus when they could have easily quit under the pressure. Filled with gratitude and joy, Paul decided to write them a letter to tell them of his affection while attempting to inspire their continued commitment to Jesus Christ. This is the beginning of that letter. For you and me, we must ask ourselves “what kind of teammate are we” for the Gospel? Do others in our church have the same affection for us when they consider our selfless service to them, those in our community, and most importantly, Jesus Christ? As Paul reflected on his friends, he also took the time to inspire them to continued growth. Times were tough. Pressure was mounting against the truth. Resolve that was filled with both knowledge and discernment was needed. So, he prayed for them that they would experience these maturing traits. What about you and me – are we praying for one another? Are we encouraging one another? Are we filled with the same kind of joy that Paul experienced when we consider the blessed partnership that we have with each other? May we take this “teamwork” aspect of ministry so seriously that it causes the same emotional affection in others that Paul had for the Philippians.
Posted in Devotional