Philippians 1:1-30

Paul also wrote this letter while under house arrest in Rome, around A.D. 61. This is his most personal letter. He writes to thank a church body for their love and support; and he writes to encourage the church to continue to live in harmony with others and obedience to God. This is a letter full of joy . . .

Before we begin, I will give you a list of readings for the next several weeks as the youth group has taken on a 28 day challenge to read the Bible every day.

Fri, Jan 20 - Phil 2:1-30
Sat, Jan 21 - Phil 3:1-11
Sun, Jan 22 - Phil 3:12-4:1
Mon, Jan 23 - Phil 4:2-23
Tues, Jan 24 - 1 Peter 1:1-12
Wed, Jan 25 - 1 Peter 1:13-2:3
Thurs, Jan 26 - 1 Peter 2:4-12
Fri, Jan 27 - 1 Peter 2:13-25
Sat, Jan 28 - 1 Peter 3:1-7
Sun, Jan 29 - 1 Peter 3:8-22
Mon, Jan 30 - 1 Peter 4:1-11
Tues, Jan 31 - 1 Peter 4:12-19
Fri, Feb 1 - 1 Peter 5:1-14

Let's read -
Paul starts his letter with his traditional thanksgiving and prayer. You can tell that he really loves this church. After his prayer, he encourages his brothers and sisters in Christ to stay strong in their faith no matter what their circumstances. Paul is actually joyful about his imprisonment because he is able to look past his circumstances and see the big picture. Because he is under house arrest, others have stepped forward to preach the gospel in his absence. He has also been given the opportunity to preach to the guards about Christ. So, Paul is overjoyed that the Word of God not only continues to spread, but it is being spread courageously and fearlessly.

As Paul has contemplated his circumstances, he has come to the opinion that no matter what happens - whether he is released or put to death - only good will come from it. If he goes on to preach, then the gospel (the message of Christ) will continue to spread. If he is put to death, then he will gain his reward of heaven. (and really what better reward is there than spending eternity with the One who Loves you so very much?)

And that is really the attitude we need to have. So often it is easy to get bogged down in our own problems. Paul encourages us to look at the big picture. It's not always evident right away, but God tells us that "all things work together for good for those who love him and are called to his purpose." (Romans 8:28) If you are a Christian, then you are called to his purpose and it will always be good. So be encouraged in every situation. Trust in the Lord in all things - for he has your best interest at heart.