What energized Paul to keep on going? What kept him from “burn out” and exhaustion? Two phrases stood out to me this morning as I re-read Philippians 2: 12 – 30. Paul “had hope in the Lord Jesus” and he was “confident in the Lord” (verses 19 and 25). It comes down to really trusting God no…… Continue Reading
Author Archives: Marilyn
Lesson 6 – Introduction – July 22 – 29 Philippians 2: 12 – 30
If someone asked you to explain one of the major differences between Christianity and other religions, what ideas would come to your mind? It’s a big question, isn’t it? And the answers are multiple, but Paul touches on one of the most important ones when he says to the Philippians, “continue to work out your…… Continue Reading
Lesson 5 – Sharing an Insight
Unity, like-minded, agreement. Sometimes it seems like an impossibility, doesn’t it? The illustration that I read this week in a small book by Stuart Briscoe helped me. He said, “When you attend a symphony concert, you don’t hear a stage full of people all playing the same note. Neither are they all playing their own…… Continue Reading
Lesson 5 – Introduction – July 15 – 22 Philippians 2: 1 – 11
There is an old hymn which was written in the late 1800’s by a prolific songwriter, Fanny Crosby. Blind from birth, her grandmother, who raised her, purposed to become her eyes. She filled her imagination with colorful descriptions of her environment and filled her mind with the truths of God’s amazing love for her. Because…… Continue Reading
Lesson 4 – Sharing an Insight
Here’s the question I have been asking myself this week – do I help or hinder the “progress and joy” of the people who I am with each day? Paul was convinced that his presence (and his correspondance) would be not only an example but an inspiration to his friends wherever he went. Oh Lord,…… Continue Reading
Lesson 4 – Introduction – July 8 – 15 Philippians 1: 12 – 30
It is very satisfying when you are actually able to see and measure progress, isn’t it? Whether it is an assignment at work, cleaning out your closet, or simply a knitting project, there is something about watching the changes that brings a sense of accomplishment. The process of moving toward the completion of a project…… Continue Reading
Lesson 3 – Sharing an Insight
What has God brought to your mind and heart through these opening verses in Paul’s letter to the Philippians? For me is has been the phrase “that your love will overflow (or abound) more and more”. I have been trying to live that out by taking the time and giving some energy to convey to people some…… Continue Reading
Lesson 3 – Introduction – July 1 – 8 Philippians 1: 1 – 11
Do you have a spiritual mentor? Someone who first introduced you to the Good News about Christ or someone who has loved you and consistently cared about your journey of faith. Perhaps you have a mature friend who faithfully challenges you to make an attitude adjustment or helps you in a crisis decision. If you…… Continue Reading
Lesson 2-Introduction-June 24-July 1 The Big Picture
It really doesn’t matter whether it is the Eiffel Tower, a rose garden, or an elephant. Standing back far enough to see the whole object is a very important thing to do. The tower is far more than an amazing amount of iron lattice work or a stair case, isn’t it? While a rose is…… Continue Reading
Lesson 1 – Introduction – June 17-24 "Where is Philippi?"
This week we will be introduced to the people that Paul, the author of the letter to the Philippians, first met when he and his companion, Silas, first went to the city of Philippi. You will read all about them in Acts 16: 6 – 40. So let’s get started. What an amazing journey! Paul and Silas could never predict…… Continue Reading