This morning I finished my readings in the Epistle to the Philippians. The closing of this letter is very powerful, and I want to share what I received from it this morning.
I came across a phrase that made me ask these two questions:
How often do we pray for those whose names are in the book of life?
How often do we pray for those whose names are not yet in the book of life?
Truly a prayer worth praying right now!
Paul shares a reminder for our work and lives: Rejoice in the Lord always. He said it again: Rejoice! (Nothing worse than sour patch Christians! Smiling Christians bless others). In all that we do for the Lord should be done in gentleness. We should know that whatever we do, wherever we go, the Lord is with us, near to us. We should not be anxious nor worried about what we were called to do, but we should tackle everything in prayer and petition, with thankful hearts as we present to the Lord our requests. Through prayer and faithful worship, the peace of God, which goes beyond human comprehension, will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
One of the best guides to our work and lives being blessed is to have an attitude focused on these things: True things, or the truth that came to us as we entered into relationship with Jesus Christ. Someone posted a short video on how Kris Kristofferson came to write the song, "Why Me, Lord?" His explanation of God moving in his life towards truth is very touching and compelling. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tA7E7pbUws). We should think on noble things- the work that has blessed someone. The things that are right, pure, whatever is lovely and admirable - anything that is excellent or praiseworthy-think about those things so all that we have been taught by our mentors in the faith, we should do, and God's peace will be with us.
We should be thankful for those who have supported and blessed our ministry. There are those who have shared prayers, calls, emails, visits, food, gifts, money, with us - these should be in our prayers, and we should express our gratitude towards them as well.
As we walk with Christ, we should do so with contentment, regardless of the circumstances. Like Paul, we should know what it is to be in need, as well as to have plenty. Paul knew the secret of being content in any and all circumstances, whether well-fed, or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. And the verse which ranks among my all-time favorites: I can do everything through Him who gives me strength. This, I believe, was Paul's "secret" for being content in all things.
As we close our time of study and prayer today and all days, we should say, "To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever, Amen." Remember we have at our disposal, all spiritual riches from whence God will meet all our needs.
PHIL-ME-UP PRAYER: May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with our spirit now and always, amen.
