Today’s Reading: Philippians 1:12-14 ESV
I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ. And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.
More About Philippians 1:12-14
Written by Quantrilla Ard (First 5 Ministries)
In Philippians 1:13, Paul talked about it being known through the whole imperial guard and all over, that his imprisonment was about Christ and not him. Can you imagine the manpower assigned to Paul’s care and security during his sentence? His captivity didn’t just involve the guards but others who were attending to his needs while there. I imagine someone was making his food, washing his clothing and providing pen, ink and parchment for him to even write the letter to the Philippians. These and others involved in his everyday life, bore witness to his life and faith and found it to be a true and abiding faith. They knew his time there was because of Christ, whom he served, and the gospel he preached. Paul had a thriving ministry while in captivity! It truly excites me that God can use me wherever I am, regardless of what I’ve walked through or am currently walking through!
Prayer: Lord, I confess that the hard parts of life I’ve walked through have taken their toll on my heart. I wonder if there is truly purpose in my pain. Help me to view my circumstances through the lens of the gospel and Your good plan for my life, even when it doesn’t feel good. Thank You for knowing just how to encourage me on my journey. Help me to do the same for others. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Journal Prompt: Where have you seen God’s hand at work in the middle of something hard you’ve gone through recently?
