proclaim

“As it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

Philippians 1:20-21 ESV

God has called us to be faithful even when it’s difficult.

Paul had every reason to quit. Writing letters from prison, no longer free to go wherever he wanted, and yet he kept his eye on the goal— to see Christ glorified. Regardless of circumstance, he remained encouraged in order to fulfill the work God had called him to do.

In Philippians 1:12 he writes, “What has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel.” This would have been a natural time to focus on himself, to sink low in a pit of despair, but he chose joy! What a testament to fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (He 12:2). As a prisoner, Paul eagerly sought out ways to reach others with the Gospel, so that others would come to know Christ as their Lord and Savior. “And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment are much more bold to speak the word without fear,” (Ph 1:14).

Consider your life and the trials you are going through. If Christ was sitting next to you, how would you respond? Perhaps there’s a reason for your current situation. Perhaps there’s a person God is drawing near and you’re the only Christian they might encounter. Of course we have our reasons— I don’t know enough, I’m not good enough, they will never listen, I’m too busy or I’m scared—Paul had good reason too. But that didn’t stop him. He knew Christ was the reason for his entire being and was not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God (Ro 1:16).

Be bold, friend. May we imitate Paul as he imitated Christ, trusting that with the help of the Holy Spirit, all things will turn out for our deliverance.

reflect:

How might God want to use your current circumstance for His glory? Are you regularly sharing the gospel? Spend a few minutes thinking about who among your circle you could pray for—are you willing to commit to pray for these people regularly?

centering prayer

LORD, give me boldness to be a faithful steward all the days of my life. amen.