“…in no way alarmed by your opponents…”
(Phil 1:28-30)

As we describe the kind of life that is “worthy” of the gospel, there’s one more to add to the list—Stay Focused (see the end of this devotional for entire list).

As followers of Jesus, we are walking counter-culture. The world is going a different direction.

We are walking with the clear standard of the Word of God—they are debating the standards to justify their sin; we are walking toward purity—they are walking toward sensuality; we are walking with eternity in mind—many around us have this world as their only hope and they are ignoring eternity!

The world expects us to back down from what we believe. People without Christ don’t want to face what we believe. Their response? They want to alarm us, frighten us…anything to make us lose our focus.

This word (that the NASB translates “alarm”) paints a picture in my mind. Have you ever watched an animal that was shocked by a sudden loud noise? It moved from standing quietly to a full gallop in a few seconds, right? That is the picture Paul paints. He says, “don’t let the loud empty noise of your opponent cause you to take off running!”

Why? Because if we stay focused on what we believe, they will be the ones shocked! They will have to face the fact that they just might be wrong.

“in no way be alarmed by your opponents—which is a sign of destruction for them…” (1:28)

When those without Christ take their best shot at you and you stand firm with confidence—that shakes them to the core! Trying to ignore the claims of Christ, they come face-to-face with the difference Christ has made in you!

Paul’s challenge to the Philippians (and my prayer for you as your pastor) is simple:

“don’t be alarmed by your opponents!”

Live a life worthy of the Gospel:

1. Show the difference that Christ makes in your life
2. Stand firm
3. Stand together
4. Strive together
5. Stay Focused