February 26, 2005

From Paul’s example in Philippians 1:12-18 we are encouraged to find joy in all of our circumstances. That sounds good, but is it really possible?

Paul wrote, “What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed; and in this I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice...”

How could Paul write this and really believe it? How could he pen these things in light of all the difficult circumstances he was facing? He could write these things because of one word…FOCUS!

Paul’s sole concern, his one desire, was to see the kingdom of God furthered. Yesterday we saw that Paul didn’t focus on his chains and he didn’t focus on the spiteful motivation of others. Quite simply Paul’s focus wasn’t on himself, his focus was on God.

Something else happens, however, when we turn our focus towards God. Not only is there an increased burden to see the kingdom of God furthered, there is an increased burden to serve God by serving others.

Throughout the first chapter of Philippians we sense and feel the depth of Paul’s emotions towards the churches that he helped start. In verse 8 we read, “For God is my witness, how I long for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus.” And then in verse 24, “…yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake.”

Paul was facing possible death, yet his heart was to be with the church in Philippi using his strengths and his passions to serve them and strengthen them. The more committed we are to Christ, the more committed we will be to submitting ourselves both inside and outside of the body of Christ.

In what ways are you serving God by serving others? When you look at your circumstances and your spheres of influence, who has God put in front of you to serve? Is there anything, any unconfessed sin, that is keeping you from serving God and serving others?

Lord open our eyes to see how we might serve You by serving others. Lord may You be our focus in all we do.