Philippians 1:7-11
Reflect
Paul is a passionate man and not shy about expressing his feelings. In this passage, he freely shares his love for the Philippians, praying that they too would grow in their love. In the original Greek, verse 10’s “so that you may be able” means to “put to the test, examine.” This same Greek term was used regarding the testing of metals, money, or the usefulness of an item. In Judaism, a Jew was to discern and choose their actions based on the Law. Paul is instructing the Philippians to discern and choose their actions out of love in preparation for the second coming of Christ. When you make decisions, do you choose your actions based on the love of God in you and in light of the fact that Jesus will return?
For Paul, sharing the gospel is the most loving and essential thing he can do, and it can be done in any circumstance, including while being under arrest and defending himself before judges (see Acts 23-28). Love is not always convenient or easy. The Message translation of this passage reads “Learn to love appropriately… so that your love is sincere and intelligent, not sentimental gush.” Today, personalize and pray verses 9-11 for yourself. Ask Holy Spirit if there is a decision you can make out of God’s increasing love in you, rather than from a place of fear, worry, or shame.
Pastor Melissa
Pray
- Pray through the prayer section in our program.
- Pray for our Congregational Life Pastor, Mike Bartusek and his family.
- Pray for Dave Schneider, our Youth and Worship Pastor and Erin Gibbard, Youth Ministry Associate.
- Pray for Karen Alksne, our Congregational Life Ministry Associate.