February 22, 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 to everyone else, and that 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
Yesterday, as we studied this same passage, we saw that Paul viewed his circumstances as God’s plan for his life. He didn’t groan and complain while chained to the Roman guard, he simply took every opportunity to make the most of the situation that he found himself in.
But as we read this passage we also find that not only did Paul see his “chains” as God’s plan, but he also saw an opportunity to lead the believers in Philippi.
Paul writes, “Now I want you to know, brethren…” Paul saw the value of using his circumstances to encourage and lead others. He realized that others may in fact go through the same thing he was going through and he knew the way he dealt with his circumstances may in fact be a great teaching tool for others.
This morning as you reflect on Paul’s circumstances, make a personal list of the challenging circumstances that God has allowed you to go through.
• Perhaps you have had a difficult family life, growing up in a dysfunctional home.
• Maybe you have tragically lost a spouse, child, or loved one.
• Maybe you have lost a job and had financial challenges.
After you have made that list, make an additional list of ways that God might use the circumstances that He has brought you through to encourage others who might be going through the same thing.
As a community of believers we need to be challenged to see our circumstances as an opportunity to lead, encourage, and challenge others who are experiencing the same things.
Lord, thank you for the trials that You have allowed me to go through that are shaping me to be like You. Father may I be willing and ready to share my circumstances and experiences with others who may be dealing with similar issues in their lives.
