Today we’re starting a new book; Philippians chapter 1. Paul wrote this letter to the church of Philippi while in prison around 62 A.D. Let’s get started:
- Paul begins this letter by expressing his gratitude for having the privilege to found the church of Philippi. He goes on to say that he prays regularly for them to increase in knowledge about God so they can discern the proper things to do.
- He also tells his audience not to worry about him being in prison because it has become a testimony for God to the people around him. Some have even become more bold in their faith because of Paul’s predicament.
- Paul makes a statement in verse 21 that is very deep. He said, “to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Paul is saying that if he is released from prison he will go on preaching the message of Jesus’ love to people. However, if he dies in prison then it’s a “gain” for him because then he will be in heaven with Jesus. This is an astounding position to hold for someone who is suffering greatly for telling people about Jesus.
Has your relationship with God grown since you began doing the Tattoo Church Reading Plan? Have you grown to a place where you feel you could have the same strength Paul is showing in this chapter? Could you keep your joy and say honestly if I get out I’ll commit the same “crime” (telling people about Jesus) again but if you die then you’re happy to? It’s a tough one but we should be so close to God that we can have this unique perspective in life as well. More than likely we will never face struggles like this on the same level as Paul but it still applies to every trial we face.
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