As our life together moves forward — facing challenges, overcoming obstacles, finding purpose — we may need some encouragement, assurance that our efforts will not be in vain. How can we know that our journey will end in victory? In his letter to the Philippians, the Apostle Paul writes words of encouragement from behind prison walls. Clearly, he knows secrets that will help us to answer this question.
Week 1: Joy, Philippians 1:1-11, Feb 6, 2022
The world seeks happiness, while God promises joy. Joy is therefore more powerful than happiness. It is not dependent on circumstances or environment. It is more deeply rooted and more deeply satisfying. How do we obtain this joy that sustains us even in challenging times?
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Week 2: Hope, Philippians 1:20-26, Feb 13, 2022
Some days challenge us more than others. Sometimes the obstacles are so formidable that we question whether our efforts are worth anything at all. Yet, the apostle maintains a powerful perspective that both informs his efforts and assures him of good results. Even when most people cannot see the signs of success, how does he keep his hope alive?
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Week 3: Humility, Philippians 2:1-11, Feb 20, 2022
Humility is not always popular in our culture. The humble person is often seen as a weak person. Jesus, however, turns this perspective on its head. Only truly strong people can be humble, and this humility gives them power to face the harsh critics in our world.
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Week 4: Obedience, Philippians 3:7-14, Feb 27, 2022
In our culture, obedience does not come easily. If they want obedience, parents, pet owners and governments must often stipulate harsh consequences for any failure to comply. When we follow Christ, however, we are blessed to obey, because of the one who calls us to obey. In our obedience to Him we find power and strength to stand through any trial.
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