February 21, 2005

“Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel, so that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the whole praetorian guard and toe everyone else, and hat most of the brethren, trusting in the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear.” Philippians 1:12-14

Paul, as we see in this passage, was facing some pretty difficult circumstances. He was in Rome, under house arrest, and chained to a guard 24 hours a day. But as we saw yesterday, the way Paul viewed his circumstances reflected what he believed about God; and how he responded demonstrated for all to see that his belief was real.

As we look carefully at Paul’s circumstances we realize that Paul saw his circumstances as God’s plan for his life. He let everyone know that his imprisonment was for the cause of Christ.

What Paul understood was that this trial, this suffering, was going to make him more like Jesus. Paul understood that he needed to take advantage of every opportunity given to share his faith.

When we face difficult circumstances for “the cause of Christ” we need to have the same attitude that Paul had. Peter puts it this way, “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation.” I Peter 4:12-13

Peter reminds the believer that when we lay our lives down and allow Christ to become Lord of our lives we will face trials and suffering. Suffering in our lives draws us closer to Jesus. Suffering rids us of the impurities that keep us from having the type of intimacy with Christ that we need. Suffering allows us to see our dependency upon Him for all things.

Paul saw his chains as God’s plan. Paul saw his chains as an opportunity for spiritual growth. Paul saw his chains as an opportunity to further the gospel.

How are we viewing our chains? How are we viewing our trials and our circumstances?

Lord, let us see Your plan more clearly as we lay our lives down for you today. Father, help me to see my chains as Your plan and as an opportunity to serve You.