Philippians 1 - Praying God's Word

Please read Philippians 1.

www.blueletterbible.org/nasb/phl/1/1/s_1104001

Meditate on verse 12.

Now I want you to know, brethren, that

 my circumstances have turned out for the

greater progress of the Gospel.

The Philippian church was very special to Paul. It was started on his missionary journey to Macedonia, now part of northern Greece. Read Acts 16 to see the miracles that took place, including a jailhouse earthquake that changed a family’s life for eternity.

Interestingly, Paul wrote this letter to the Philippians from a different jail. This imprisonment was the “my circumstances” God was using to further the Gospel (v. 12). Can you imagine the excitement in the Philippian church as they gathered to hear Paul’s letter read? Can you picture the Philippian jailer, his family, and friends nodding their heads with glory- filled smiles and giving Macedonian high-fives as Paul wrote of the good happening from his imprisonment (vs. 12-14)?

One of the greatest aspects of being a Christian is realizing that God is always working in you and through your circumstances. Be confident that the Holy Spirit and the prayers of others will see you through your next adventure with the ability to be faithful and bold (vs. 19-20). God turns even negative circumstances into something that glorifies Him.

Pray Philippians 1:12 and 19-22 over yourself and those for whom you stand guard as a faithful, prayerful watchman (Isaiah 62:6-7).

“LORD, may _________ and my circumstances turn

 out for the greater progress of the Gospel. 

Thank You for Your deliverance and the provision

 of the Spirit of Jesus Christ.  Let us not be put to shame

 in anything, but with all boldness, let Christ always be exalted

 in our bodies, whether by life or by death. 

For to live is Christ and to die is gain.

LORD, if we live on in the flesh, let our lives mean

 fruitful labor for the sake of others.

Because of Your name, Jesus.”

The WATCHMAN on the WALL, 3 – Dr. Ron and Marsha Harvell