I was intrigued by Paul’s connection of maturity with a confidence that God could change the mind of others who see things from a different point of view than mine. No need to argue or get defensive or be persuasive. He actually doesn’t need my help! Let God be God. And in the process, I will…… Continue Reading
Category Archives: Lessons
Lesson 8 – Introduction – Aug. 5 – 12 Philippians 3: 12 – 21
If there is one word that does not fit into the description of Paul, the author of the letter to the Philippians, it is the word apathetic. He easily could have been. He could have simply been satisfied with his achievements of the past and “rested on his laurels”. He could have been discouraged and/or…… Continue Reading
Lesson 7 – Sharing an Insight
How can I experience “God’s mighty power” and accept willingly (even joyfully) the suffering that is inevitably part of life? The verses in II Peter 1: 3 – 5 have helped me grasp the possibility by reminding me that God’s power is experienced as I count by faith on His great and precious promises. These promises are…… Continue Reading
Lesson 7-Introduction-July 29-Aug. 5 Philippians 3: 1 – 11
Do you think there is a difference between happiness and joy? What makes you happy? What gives you joy? Do you use the words interchangeably or do you make a distinction between the two of them in your mind and conversation? Webster’s dictionary indicates that happiness is characterized by luck, good fortune or prosperity, while…… Continue Reading
Lesson 6 – Sharing an Insight
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
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