How Committed

Paul writes the next book, Philippians while he is imprisoned in Rome. This book was probably written around 60-62 C.E. Throughout Philippians, Paul shares his experiences, his plans, and encourages humility and plans. He also later on reminds them of the consequences of false teachings.

⁹ And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, ¹⁰ so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, ¹¹ filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God. - Philippians 1:9-11

Even in prison Paul was praying for those around him, in the worst of circumstances, he still thinks of others before himself. While reading these two verses, I felt that we could similarly say that this should be our prayers and for others as well.

Paul prays that our love abound more in knowledge and insight. Let us continue to love more and more, unconditionally and freely. At the same time, to have more knowledge and insight. God has given us truth in the scriptures, and it wont do you any good if it's just sitting on your bookshelf collecting dust. Pick it up and read it daily, it is food for your spirit.

We also want to "be able to discern what is best" for us, for others, for God. We should always be considering God, wanting to know his will for us, to make the right decisions to honor Him. How do we know? How do we find out? Simple, read his word. I guess you can think of it as prayer is how we speak to God, and scripture is how he speaks to us. Without one or the other, you'll never get the full communication.

Purity and blamelessness is something we as followers are always striving for. As sinners, limited humans, we are unable to be as perfect and righteous as God, but let us work towards it, fighting evil desires and our selfish ambitions. When we strive for that, we will find and be filled with joy and righteousness in Christ, knowing and having him satisfy all things.

¹³ As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. ¹⁴ And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear. - Philippians 1:13-14

Paul proudly proclaims his obedience and dedication to Christ. Even in chains he is sharing the gospel, making God's name famous and as he says, it has dared others to be confident in proclaiming the good news as well. How committed to God are you? Can you be so willing and proud to boast about God and your faith? Let us be encouraged by Paul and be just as willing.

Let us live a life worthy of the gospel. It is everything, the foundation of our faith, and the greatest news anyone can hear. Paul says that we are not only to believe in Christ but to suffer for him as the world persecutes us and challenges us. Let us stand firm in the faith, fighting the good fight.

verse of the day: Philippians 1:21

²¹ For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.