Tag Archives: philippians

Our Daily Bread — Faultfinders Anonymous

August 7, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Read: Philippians 1:1-11

Bible in a Year: Psalms 72-73; Romans 9:1-15

And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more. —Philippians 1:9

Like many people, when I read a newspaper or magazine I notice the misteaks in grammar and spelling. (You saw that, didn’t you!) I’m not trying to find errors; they leap off the page at me! My usual reaction is to criticize the publication and the people who produce it. “Why don’t they use ‘spell check’ or hire a proofreader?”

You may have a similar experience in your area of expertise. It seems that often, the more we know about something, the more judgmental we become over mistakes. It can infect our relationships with people as well.

Yet Philippians 1:9 expresses a different approach. Paul wrote, “And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment.” God’s plan is that the more we know and understand, the more we love. Rather than cultivating a critical spirit and pretending we don’t notice or don’t care, our understanding should nourish empathy. Criticism is replaced by compassion.

Instead of our being faultfinders, the Lord calls us to be “filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God” (v. 11).

When the Lord fills our hearts, we can overlook mistakes, hold our criticism, and love others, no matter how much we know about them! —David C. McCasland

Lord, by Your grace, please replace my critical spirit with Your love and compassion for others.

To err is human; to forgive, divine. Alexander Pope

INSIGHT: Notice the depth of love Paul has for his fellow believers at Philippi. This is seen in how he speaks to them and what he desires for them. He speaks as one who loves them and longs for them deeply (v. 8). His desires are seen in his prayers—that they will experience a growing yet wise love (v. 9), a discerning yet genuine spirit (v. 10), and a fruitful and Christ-honoring life (v. 11). These are great things we too can pray for in the lives of those we love and in our own lives as well. Bill Crowder

John MacArthur

John MacArthur – The Joy of Recollection

February 10, 2015 broboinhawaii 1 Comment

“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you” (Phil. 1:3).

A key to Christian joy is to recall the goodness of others.

Though Paul was under house arrest in Rome when he wrote to the Philippians, his mind wasn’t bound. Often he reflected on his experiences with the Philippian Christians. As he did, his thoughts turned to prayers of praise and thanksgiving for all that the Lord had done through them.

I’m sure Paul remembered when he preached in Philippi and God opened Lydia’s heart to believe the gospel (Acts 16:13-14). Subsequently everyone in her household was saved (v. 15). Surely her kindness and hospitality were bright spots in an otherwise stormy stay at Philippi.

He must also have remembered the demon-possessed girl whom the Lord delivered from spiritual bondage (v. 18), and the Philippian jailer, who threw Paul and Silas into prison after they had been beaten severely (vv. 23-24). Perhaps the girl became part of the Philippian church—the text doesn’t say. We do know that the jailer and his whole household were saved, after which they showed kindness to Paul and Silas by tending to their wounds and feeding them (vv. 30-34).

The many financial gifts that the Philippians sent to Paul were also fond memories for him because they were given out of love and concern. That was true of their present gift as well, which was delivered by Epaphroditus and went far beyond Paul’s need (Phil. 4:18).

Paul’s gratitude illustrates that Christian joy is enhanced by your ability to recall the goodness of others. A corollary is your ability to forgive shortcomings and unkindnesses. That goes against the grain of our “don’t get mad—get even” society but is perfectly consistent with the compassion and forgiveness God has shown you. Therefore be quick to forgive evil and slow to forget good.

Suggestions for Prayer

Take time to reflect on some people who have shown kindness to you and encouraged you in your Christian walk. Thank God for them. If possible, call them or drop them a note of thanks. Assure them of your prayers, as Paul assured the Philippians.
If you harbor ill-will toward someone, resolve it quickly and begin to uphold that person in prayer.

For Further Study

Read Matthew 5:23-26; 18:21-35. What were our Lord’s instructions regarding forgiveness and reconciliation?

John MacArthur

John MacArthur – Joy and Godliness

February 1, 2015 broboinhawaii 1 Comment

“I rejoice and share my joy with you” (Phil. 2:17).

True joy is directly related to godly living.

Philippians is often called the epistle of joy—and rightly so because the believer’s joy is its major theme. Paul loved the Philippian Christians and they loved Him. When they learned that he had been imprisoned for preaching the gospel, they were deeply concerned.

Paul wrote to alleviate their fears and encourage their joy. Of his own circumstances he said, “Even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all. And you too, I urge you, rejoice in the same way and share your joy with me” (Phil. 2:17- 18).

Often a Jewish animal sacrifice was accompanied by a libation or drink offering (e.g., Num. 15:1-10). The animal was the greater sacrifice; the libation the lesser. Drawing from that picture, Paul placed greater significance on the faith and spiritual well-being of his readers than on his own life. To suffer for Christ’s sake brought him joy, and he wanted the Philippians to understand that perspective and rejoice with him.

He also wanted them to understand that joy doesn’t operate in a vacuum. It’s directly related to godly living. Christ is its source; obedience is its sustenance. We see that in David’s cry of repentance: “Restore to me the joy of Thy salvation” (Ps. 51:12). Paul knew the joy of the Lord because he trusted Christ and obeyed His will.

The scarcity of joy and godliness in the world today makes it imperative that Christians manifest those characteristics. As we do, others will see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven (Matt. 5:16).

This month we will highlight various aspects of joy and godliness from Philippians 1:1-11 and Colossians 1:9-12. I pray you will be eager to learn from God’s Word, and willingly obey what you learn, for therein is “joy inexpressible and full of glory” (1 Pet. 1:8).

Suggestions for Prayer

Ask the Holy Spirit to use our daily studies to strengthen your joy and increase your godliness.
Seek to emulate Paul’s attitude of preferring others to yourself—a key element in joyful living.

For Further Study

Read the book of Philippians, noting each reference to joy.

What brought joy to Paul?
On what or whom do you rely for joy?

Greg Laurie

Greg Laurie – By Divine Design

January 19, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel.—Philippians 1:12

The apostle Paul was the kind of guy who liked to get out and get things done. He took action and went out and accomplished things for God. But as a prisoner in Rome, Paul found himself stuck . . . immobilized . . . unable to move.

Perhaps you are immobilized in some way right now. Maybe it is some kind of disability. Maybe you’re stuck in a really tough marriage or in a job you really don’t want to be in. Maybe you’re living somewhere you wish you didn’t live. Whatever it is, you feel immobilized.

Yet notice how Paul, despite his circumstances, was able to rejoice. He wrote, “But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel” (Philippians 1:12). Even under house arrest, Paul was looking on the bright side. He was saying, “I believe I am here because God wants me here. But this isn’t what I planned.”

And then Paul went on to talk about the guards: “It has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ” (verse 13). These weren’t just any guards; they were members of the Praetorian Guard, the elite soldiers.

How could you not become a Christian while being chained to the Apostle Paul? Apparently some of the guards did come to Christ, because later in Philippians Paul wrote, “All the saints greet you, but especially those who are of Caesar’s household” (4:22).

This is never what Paul planned, but it is what God planned. Maybe you’re in a place right now that you never planned on. You are there by divine design. God has put you where you are for such a time as this.

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Start a Band

September 19, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

King Solomon said, “Two are better than one.” Together, they can complete more work, watch each other’s backs and keep each other warm. “For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.” (Ecclesiastes 4:10) Indeed, friends are a gift.

I thank my God in all my remembrance of you.

Philippians 1:3

Paul recognized that gift. In his letter to his Philippian friends, he thanks God every time he thinks of them. His memories make him joyful. Working together for the kingdom of God is rewarding and creates lasting bonds. There are Christians in every city of every state in America. While from many different denominations, together you share a common bond in Christ; yet so often believers argue over small stuff instead of praising God and thanking Him for fellow workers.

What if every Christian prayed today and thanked God for all of His followers? Lift one another up instead of tearing down. Pray that “he who began a good work in [each of] you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6) Ask God to help you band together and lift His name above all other names so that those in political office will bow down and worship Him.

Our Daily Bread — Kangaroos and Emus

June 1, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Philippians 3:12-17

Forgetting those things which are behind . . . I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. —Philippians 3:13-14

Two of Australia’s indigenous creatures, kangaroos and emus, have something in common—they seldom move backward. Kangaroos, because of the shape of their body and the length of their strong tail, can bounce along with forward movement, but they cannot shift easily into reverse. Emus can run fast on their strong legs, but the joints in their knees seem to make backward movement difficult. Both animals appear on Australia’s coat of arms as a symbol that the nation is to be ever moving forward and making progress.

The apostle Paul called for a similar approach to the life of faith in his letter to the Philippians: “Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (3:13-14).

While it is wise to learn from the past, we shouldn’t live in the past. We cannot redo or undo the past, but by God’s grace we can press forward and serve God faithfully today and in the future. The life of faith is a journey forward as we become like Christ. —Bill Crowder

I’m pressing on the upward way,

New heights I’m gaining every day;

Still praying as I’m onward bound,

“Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.” —Oatman

I will go anywhere—provided it is forward.

Bible in a year: 2 Chronicles 15-16; John 12:27-50

Insight

Paul the apostle had an interesting writing style. One aspect of this is seen in Ephesians 1, where verses 3-10 form one long sentence. Another element of Paul’s novel approach is found in Philippians 3:13-14. Here Paul declares, “one thing I do”; then he goes on to list not one but three things! His one thing? Forgetting the things behind, reaching to the things ahead, and pressing toward the goal of the upward call of Christ. Though marked by Paul’s unique style, the wisdom of his words regarding spiritual priorities still rings true.

Our Daily Bread

Our Daily Bread — Jordyn’s Journey

May 30, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Philippians 4:10-13

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. —Philippians 4:13

Jordyn Castor was born blind. But this doesn’t hold her back from living a full and productive life. The documentary Can You See How I See? tells her story. She excels at school and with a little help she enjoys biking and downhill skiing.

Of her sight, Jordyn says: “If I could give my blindness back, I wouldn’t do it. I think God made all of us the way we are for a reason . . . and I think my blindness is part of what I am going to do with my life.” She is now a university student majoring in computer technology. Her dream is to assist in developing new computer software that will help the blind.

How can Jordyn maintain such a positive outlook on life? As a Christ-follower, she understands that God is in control of the circumstances of life. This gives her confidence to pursue opportunities that others might not have believed possible. Certainly, Jordyn’s life illustrates this truth from Philippians: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (4:13).

No matter what our strengths or weaknesses might be, God’s providential hand can give us what we need to make a difference for Him in our world. Rely on His strength to help you as you take a step of faith. —Dennis Fisher

“I will strengthen,” so take courage,

Child of God, so weak and frail;

God has said so, and it must be,

For His promise cannot fail! —Anon.

God’s call to a task includes His strength to complete it.

Bible in a year: 2 Chronicles 10-12; John 11:30-57

Insight

The spiritual vitality and confidence found in the inspiring words of today’s text have sustained the faith of believers for hundreds of years. Here Paul wrote, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (v.13). When we read these words we also need to take into consideration their context. Paul, while unjustly incarcerated for his faith, has just received a gracious gift from the congregation in Philippi. The apostle sees a pattern of grace provision in this generous gift. He has learned to rejoice in plenty and to be thankful and satisfied in want. The reason for this is that Jesus Christ, who indwells him and who engineers life’s circumstances, provides him with the power to be resilient in whatever circumstance he must face.

Charles Spurgeon

Charles Spurgeon – How to keep the heart

February 21, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

“The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7

John MacArthur – The Joy of Participation

February 12, 2014 broboinhawaii 1 Comment

“In view of your participation in the gospel from the first day until now” (Phil. 1:5).

In recent years the Greek word koin[ma]onia has become familiar to many Christians as the New Testament word for fellowship. However, it is also translated “partnership” and “participation.” In Philippians 1:5, Paul uses it to emphasize the participation of the Philippians in common ministry goals.

Romans 12:13 gives one aspect of that partnership and participation: monetary contributions. That’s one aspect of fellowship that the Philippian church eagerly shared with Paul. As he says in Philippians 4:15-16, “At the first preaching of the gospel, after I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving but you alone; for even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs.” They were partners in his ministry because their financial support made it possible for him to preach the gospel more effectively.

The Philippians knew that Paul carried a tremendous burden in his heart for all the churches. In listing many of the trials he endured as an apostle, then added, “Apart from such external things, there is the daily pressure upon me of concern for all the churches” (2 Cor. 11:28). The Philippian church eased that burden somewhat by being committed to Paul, to his teaching, and to godly living. That brought great joy to him.

How about you? Do your leaders derive encouragement and joy from your participation in the gospel? Remember, you share in a sacred partnership with Christ and your fellow Christians in the advancement of the gospel, just as the Philippians shared a partnership with Paul. Rejoice in that privilege and make the most of it today.

Suggestions for Prayer:

Thank the Lord for the Christian fellowship you enjoy.

Ask for wisdom on how you might advance the gospel more effectively.

Always seek to ease the burden of your spiritual leaders by faithfully participating in the ministry of your church as God has gifted you.

For Further Study:

Read Ephesians 4:11-16.

What is the goal of Christian ministry?

What is the role of a pastor/teacher in achieving that goal?

What is your role (see also Rom. 12:6-8; 1 Cor. 12:4- 11; 1 Pet. 4:10-11)?

John MacArthur

John MacArthur – The Joy of Recollection

February 10, 2014 broboinhawaii 1 Comment

“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you” (Phil. 1:3).

He must also have remembered the demon-possessed girl whom the Lord delivered from spiritual bondage (v. 18), and the Philippian jailer, who threw Paul and Silas into prison after they had been beaten severely (vv. 23-24). Perhaps the girl became part of the Philippian church–the text doesn’t say. We do know that the jailer and his whole household were saved, after which they showed kindness to Paul and Silas by tending to their wounds and feeding them (vv. 30-34).

Paul’s gratitude illustrates that Christian joy is enhanced by your ability to recall the goodness of others. A corollary is your ability to forgive shortcomings and unkindnesses. That goes against the grain of our “don’t get mad–get even” society but is perfectly consistent with the compassion and forgiveness God has shown you. Therefore be quick to forgive evil and slow to forget good.

Suggestions for Prayer:

Take time to reflect on some people who have shown kindness to you and encouraged you in your Christian walk. Thank God for them. If possible, call them or drop them a note of thanks. Assure them of your prayers, as Paul assured the Philippians.

If you harbor ill-will toward someone, resolve it quickly and begin to uphold that person in prayer.

For Further Study:

Read Matthew 5:23-26; 18:21-35. What were our Lord’s instructions regarding forgiveness and reconciliation?

John MacArthur

John MacArthur – Joy and Godliness

February 1, 2014 broboinhawaii 1 Comment

“I rejoice and share my joy with you” (Phil. 2:17).

Philippians is often called the epistle of joy–and rightly so because the believer’s joy is its major theme. Paul loved the Philippian Christians and they loved Him. When they learned that he had been imprisoned for preaching the gospel, they were deeply concerned.

Suggestions for Prayer:

Ask the Holy Spirit to use our daily studies to strengthen your joy and increase your godliness.

Seek to emulate Paul’s attitude of preferring others to yourself–a key element in joyful living.

For Further Study:

Read the book of Philippians, noting each reference to joy.

What brought joy to Paul?

On what or whom do you rely for joy?

Charles Stanley, Uncategorized

Charles Stanley – Wise Reactions to Criticism

October 24, 2013 broboinhawaii 1 Comment

Philippians 2:1-11

How should we face the upsetting comments of other people? What is the right response to criticism?

First, when criticism arises, maintain a quiet spirit. Do not become defensive or loud, and restrain any outburst, though that may feel right at the moment. Some people will use the excuse, “I just have a short fuse. That’s how God made me.” This is a poor argument; we can’t blame the Lord when we fail to control our own bad temper. Such responses are unhelpful, unhealthy, and unacceptable.

Second, we should not attempt to defend ourselves immediately. Pride, not genuine honesty and reflection, usually motivates this response. Whenever possible, it’s wise to allow time for the initial shock and irritation to pass before offering any defenses or theories.

Third—and this is a tough one—we must ask the Holy Spirit to show us if the problem is our fault. Are the accusations true? Is it possible that a loving friend was led by God to reveal something unpleasant about us? We do not like to think that we are ever wrong; however, we know that as sinful men and women, we cannot be right all of the time. For this reason, there is always a chance that a conflict in our lives may actually be our fault. When people care enough to confront us in this way, we should be gracious about receiving and considering their perspective.

The Lord often speaks to us through other people. If He is trying to communicate something to you through a brother or sister in Christ, challenge yourself to be open to His message—even if it hurts.

Charles Spurgeon

Charles Spurgeon – Christ’s prayer for his people

October 21, 2013 broboinhawaii 2 Comments

“I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.” John 17:15

Suggested Further Reading: Philippians 1:19-26

We never have any encouragement to ask God to let us die. Christians are always wanting to die when they have any trouble or trial. You ask them why? “Because we would be with the Lord.” O yes, they want to be with the Lord, when troubles and temptations come upon them. But it is not because they are yearning to be with the Lord, it is because they desire to get rid of their troubles. They want to get home, not so much for the Saviour’s company, as to get out of the little hard work. They did not wish to go away when they were in quiet and prosperity. Like lazy fellows, as most of us are, when we get into a little labour we beg to go home. It is quite right sometimes that you should desire to depart, because you would not prove yourself to be a true Israelite if you did not want to go to Jerusalem. You may pray to be taken home out of the world, but Christ will not take up the petition. When your prayers come to the Lord, this little one may try to get amongst them, but Christ will say, “I do not know anything about you, ‘I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world.’” You may wish it sincerely, and really desire it, but you will not at present get your Master to pray with you. Instead, then, of crying, or wishing to be away from the battle, brace yourself up in the name of the Lord. Every wish to escape the fight is but a desertion of your Master.

For meditation: Elijah prayed it while he was afraid for his life (1 Kings 19:3,4)! But God had a different departure planned for him (2 Kings 2:11). Jonah prayed it twice when he was angry (Jonah 4:3,9) soon after begging God to deliver him from drowning (Jonah 2:2,7). What a good thing God rejects our foolish requests when we or they are outside his will. Paul had the mind of Christ on this matter.

Sermon no. 47

21 October (1855)

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – No Intimidation

October 19, 2013 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Daniel Webster is considered one of the greatest orators in American history. He was a famous attorney, a member of the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate, and Secretary of State for three presidents.

And most of the brothers…are much more bold to speak the word without fear.

Philippians 1:14

One evening Webster was dining with a group of literary men in Boston. The conversation turned to Christianity and Webster confessed his faith in Jesus Christ. One of the men asked, “Mr. Webster, can you comprehend how Christ could be both God and man?” Webster replied, “No, sir, I cannot comprehend it. If I could comprehend Him, He would be no greater than myself. I feel I need a supernatural Saviour.”

Colossians 1:10 says, “Walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.” When you speak the words of God without fear and live faithfully for Him, you encourage others to do the same. Don’t be afraid or intimated into silence. Look for opportunities every day to tell others how the Lord has changed your life. Pray also that Christians on Capitol Hill would boldly share their faith in Christ through their words and actions.

Recommended Reading: Philippians 1:21-30

Joyce Meyer

Joyce Meyer – Know God’s Character

October 17, 2013 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

And my God will liberally supply (fill to the full) your every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

—Philippians 4:19

I believe Jesus tries to get us to sow a good seed by making a statement that He is first in our lives. I believe if we do that, we will receive more than we give up. I am tested in this way all the time.

There have been many times when God has asked me to give my last, my only, and my all. But every time I have done so, I have ended up better off than I was before.

Offer up your best to God today, and you will see His character, that He is El-Shaddai—the God of more than enough (See Exodus 6:3).

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – The Privilege of Knowing God

October 12, 2013 broboinhawaii 1 Comment

Philippians 3:7-11

God wants people to know Him. If He had preferred anonymity, He wouldn’t have inspired the writing of a multi-author book about Himself. But since He did, our becoming devoted followers and friends of the Creator requires us to delve deeply into Scripture.

First, we learn about God from His Word. In reading the Bible, we accumulate facts about His character, principles, and ways of operating. Unfortunately, churches are full of men and women who stop at this step. They know much about religion but haven’t developed their faith.

The second step is to meditate on Scripture by thinking about God’s words and allowing the Holy Spirit to interpret them. The only way to rightly understand this divinely inspired text is with the Spirit’s guidance.

Finally, we must apply what we learn. Suppose you read that God is a very present help in times of trouble (Ps. 46:1). Then, when trouble shows up, you will rely on Him for aid. When He answers—and He will answer, although not always as expected—you will learn something about God: He helps you by responding to your trust and dependence with a custom-made solution to your problem.

I frequently admonish believers to read the Bible, but by that, I do not mean for anyone to skim its pages and walk away with only facts. Scripture is a living document that will tell you how to practice faith in daily life, but you must do what it says. Only then can you see God as He truly is—not some ancient deity full of rules, but a vibrant Friend who wants to connect with His children daily.

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – R-E-S-P-E-C-T

October 11, 2013 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Everyone wants a little respect. While some demand it, wise people know you cannot force respect. It is earned – by honoring your word, putting others above yourself, or pitching in when someone needs help.

Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father‘s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.

Luke 12:32

You can’t focus on the character trait itself; instead, you must focus on the actions that instill respect. In today’s passage, Christ cautions His listeners not to worry about their needs being met. He tells them in Luke 12:31 to “seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you.” God’s provision is a result of obedience and focusing on Him, just as respect is a result of a life well lived.

Are you consumed with worry for your own household or the future of America? When you give too much attention to a problem, you’ve shifted the emphasis off of God. Ask your Heavenly Father to help you put Him first in everything, and watch how it changes both your own home life and trickles out to change America. Pray, too that the president and vice-president would learn to put their focus on God and, in doing so, earn the respect of many.

Our Daily Bread — A Dangerous Challenge

October 6, 2013 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

2 Chronicles 20:1, 15-22

The battle is not yours, but God’s. —2 Chronicles 20:15

While millions watched on television, Nik Wallenda walked across Niagara Falls on a 1,800-foot wire that was only 5 inches in diameter. He took all the precautions he could. But adding to the drama and danger of both the height and the rushing water below, a thick mist obscured Nik’s sight, wind threatened his balance, and spray from the falls challenged his footing. Amid—and perhaps because of—these perils, he said that he “prayed a lot” and praised God.

The Israelites also praised God in the middle of a dangerous challenge. Theirs involved a large group of warriors who had gathered to fight them (2 Chron. 20:2). After humbly asking God for help, King Jehoshaphat appointed a choir to march out into battle in front of the Israelite army. The worshipers sang: “Praise the LORD, for His mercy endures forever” (v.21). When they began to sing, the Lord caused the enemy forces to attack and destroy each other.

Praising God in the midst of a challenge may mean overriding our natural instincts. We tend toward self-protection, strategizing, and worry. However, worshiping can guard our hearts against troubling thoughts and self-reliance. It reminds us of the lesson the Israelites learned: “The battle is not [ours], but God’s” (v.15). —Jennifer Benson Schuldt

Lord, I praise You, for Your mercy is everlasting.

Help me to remember that every battle in

this life is Yours. The outcome belongs to

You because You are sovereign.

No matter what is in front of us, God is always behind us.

Bible in a year: Isaiah 26-27; Philippians 2

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – Responding to Closed Doors

August 27, 2013 broboinhawaii 1 Comment

Philippians 4:6-7

Disappointments can be hard to bear. One minute life seems to be on track for what we hope and dream. The next moment our way is blocked. How do we respond when facing closed doors?

If our hearts are set on a certain course of action, we may convince ourselves it is God’s will and push ahead regardless. We might send up a quick prayer asking for His help or blessing, but mostly we just move forward. By manipulating people or circumstances, we could get what we want but be outside of God’s plan.

Another response to a blocked path is to become emotionally upset. Then we face the danger of operating out of our feelings and replacing a Christ-centered perspective with a self-centered one. Strong emotions can be a temptation to blame others—including the Lord. Anger toward Him can, in turn, lead us to rebel against Him and His ways.

Godly responses, on the other hand, start with waiting and trusting. When the Lord blocks our way, we are to have faith in Him, taking time to assess the situation, and praying for guidance. By asking the Spirit to increase our sensitivity to the events around us, we will be able to notice any open doors. Even if we find none, we are to live with hope, anticipating other doors of opportunity in His perfect time. Thanking God for His work on our behalf is essential, even at times when we lack understanding. Finally, remaining faithful to what the Lord has called us to do is an important part of our wait.

Wait. Trust. Pray. Obey. This is God’s prescription for handling closed doors.

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – The Pathway of Peace

July 10, 2013 broboinhawaii 1 Comment

Philippians 4:6-7

All of us have responsibilities—whether regarding work, family, community, or church—and we may rightly feel some concern about how to carry out these commitments. When our natural cares get out of balance, the result is anxiety.

Though Paul faced an inordinate number of trials (2 Cor. 11:23-28), he was able to say, “Be anxious for nothing.” He understood that anxiety reveals a lack of faith—it’s not possible to be worried while fully trusting God. Fretfulness also takes a toll by draining energy and dividing the mind. Besides that, disproportionate apprehension prevents effective service to the Lord by keeping one’s focus self-centered rather than God-centered.

To keep concerns in balance, we must present our requests to God (Phil. 4:6), who is ready, willing, and totally sufficient to handle every care we bring Him. We do this by . . .

• Prayer. The Greek word implies worship and appreciation for God’s attributes, not some panicky thought tossed His way.

• Supplication. Our cry of humility conveys total helplessness and dependence upon almighty God.

• Thanksgiving. We are to approach God without blame or complaint, but with gratefulness that He will ultimately use the difficulty for our good, as He has promised (Rom. 8:28).

Philippians 4:7 says that when we bring God our requests in this way, the result will be His wonderful, inexplicable peace. Realizing this, we should learn to go to Him first—not as a last resort.

DAILY DEVOTIONS, NEWS AND INFORMATION

Tag Archives: philippians

Our Daily Bread — Faultfinders Anonymous

John MacArthur – The Joy of Recollection

John MacArthur – Joy and Godliness

Greg Laurie – By Divine Design

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Start a Band

Our Daily Bread — Kangaroos and Emus

Our Daily Bread — Jordyn’s Journey

Charles Spurgeon – How to keep the heart

John MacArthur – The Joy of Participation

John MacArthur – The Joy of Recollection

John MacArthur – Joy and Godliness

Charles Stanley – Wise Reactions to Criticism

Charles Spurgeon – Christ’s prayer for his people

Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – No Intimidation

Joyce Meyer – Know God’s Character

Charles Stanley – The Privilege of Knowing God

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – R-E-S-P-E-C-T

Our Daily Bread — A Dangerous Challenge

Charles Stanley – Responding to Closed Doors

Charles Stanley – The Pathway of Peace

Scriptures, Lessons, News and Links to help you survive.