The Daily Fountain Devotional of the Church Of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) 13 May 2024
TOPIC: WHATEVER HAPPENS
TEXT: Philippians 1: 27-30(AMP)
1:27. Only be sure as citizens so to conduct yourselves [that] your manner of life [will be] worthy of the good news (the Gospel) of Christ, so that whether I [do] come and see you or am absent, I may hear this of you: that you are standing firm in united spirit and purpose, striving side by side and contending with a single mind for the faith of the glad tidings (the Gospel).
1:28. And do not [for a moment] be frightened or intimidated in anything by your opponents and adversaries, for such [constancy and fearlessness] will be a clear sign (proof and seal) to them of [their impending] destruction, but [a sure token and evidence] of your deliverance and salvation, and that from God.
1:29. For you have been granted [the privilege] for Christ’s sake not only to believe in (adhere to, rely on, and trust in) Him, but also to suffer in His behalf.
1:30. So you are engaged in the same conflict which you saw me [wage] and which you now hear to be mine [still].
Anglican Daily Fountain Devotional 13 May 2024 STUDY:
In the previous verses of this chapter, Apostle Paul mentioned the special bond which existed between him and the Philippian brethren and thanked them for their commitment to sharing the gospel. He encouraged them to see everything that happened to him as having greatly boosted the work of spreading the gospel.
He said that while some brethren were more encouraged in their faith and courage by his imprisonment, some others resorted to preaching the gospel out of impure motive to spite him but in all, the gospel of Christ was being spread whether out of pure or impure motives.
He stated how eagerly he wanted to go and be with the Lord and how profitable it was for him to be alive to preach and strengthen the brethren. In conclusion, he noted that whatever happened to him, the brethren should continue to live as Christians so that their good reports would put their enemies to shame.
Life is full of uncertainty and no one knows what will happen next. As we live today, we do not know who will not be alive tomorrow. Losinga loved one can be a serious blow to one’s confidence and faith, especially when there has been a close bond and fond memories.
As Christians, we should understand that life on earth is a rehearsal for everlasting bliss, and we should live to glorify God in whatever situation we find ourselves.
PRAYER: Almighty Father, please help me live to glorify your name in all situations, Amen.
THOUGHT FOR TODAY: God says “Be courageous, for I am with you and I will never fail you. Deuteronomy 31:6”