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| September 24, 2001 |
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| "For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace." Philippians 1:5-7 Paul, addressing the Philippians, is telling them here that they are partners in the Good News, and their contribution of spreading God's message was valuable. We, today are responsible as we are to help our ministers, missionaries, and evangelists through prayer, hospitality, and financial gifts. We are to become partners with them. Paul is convinced that the work of grace that God began in the Philippians at conversion will be divinely continued until the day of Jesus Christ. That is, the Lord will keep working in these believers until Jesus returns to earth, at which point He will finish His work, bringing it to completion. This speaks of the Christians eternal security. For God had a purpose in view when He began His saving work in the Philippians, and that purpose will neither be abandoned nor unrealized. Application: Remember, when you sometimes feel as though you aren't making any progress in your spiritual life, that when God starts a project, He completes it! As with the Philippians, God will help you grow in grace until He has completed his work in your life. When you are discouraged, remember that God won't give up on you. He promises to finish the work which He has begun. So when you are feeling incomplete, or distressed by your shortcomings, remember God's promise and provision. Don't let your present condition rob you of your joy of knowing Christ or hold you back in growing closer to Him. The God who began a good work in us continues it throughout our lifetime and will finish it when we meet Him face to face! I think this is great ~ Hope you do also! May God bless you with a wonderful week-end as you use all things to accomplish His purpose of making us to be more like Jesus. Love in Christ, Sandy |