Read Philippians 1:3-6 NIV
I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Paul is in prison as he writes to the church of Philippi. He wants to express and acknowledge the joy he feels in his connection with them through the gospel. He acknowledges the progress the Lord has made and declares his hope for continued growth.
I relate this message to my small group. I thank God for this group and all the wonderful women the Lord has placed in my life who have helped me to grow in my faith. This group brings me pure joy, as we share in the journey of healthy living – physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Seeing all the ways the Lord is working in our lives gives me hope and encouragement. I am grateful to be a witness to the Lord’s good works and believe in all that He is doing through this ministry.
Through this group, I have learned that experiencing joy requires persistence, because joy involves choice. Three things must be right to fully experience joy: my fellowship with God, my relationship with others, and my opinion of myself. I may not always get these things right, but I trust in the Lord and His good works.
Prayer
Lord, I pray with joy because of the partnership I have received through Cross Creek Church. There has been much progress throughout the last ten years. Through many connections we are growing together as a church in our faith and for this I am grateful. Help us all to do our part as we trust in You to continue the good works in each one of us! Thank You, Lord. Amen
