Weekly Devo: A Grateful Heart Is Peace-filled & Contentment.

I find it hard to sit still. I am always processing ideas and my mind is often racing. I have my list of things that need done. You do too! We can find ourselves rushing through life. Why are we in such a hurry? 

I notice that even when someone rushes past me on the road, they end up stuck at the same stop light as me. I laugh inside, as do you. Hurry doesn't always win the race!  Take time to listen to the message here. 

 

Today we are dealing with a couple of related topics, but it brings us closer to understanding how we can have a grateful heart. Gratitude is the key to a happy and fulfilling Christian life. As you know, it’s not about the stuff we have that makes us successful but only whaybis done in Christ. 

 

Over the last several weeks, we have walked through the book of Philippians. It is here that we find Paul speaking of joy, even though he is in chains and in prison. Last week I shared with you the number of days that he was in prison. (It was over 2,100 days.) This week I’m going to give you another number that will hopefully help us to understand more deeply the power of God‘s Word applied in our lives.

 

The apostle Paul tells us that we should not worry. That’s easy for him to say. Worry as often what leads as a major theme in our lives. How can you say that? Well, he gives us the answer.  He says pray about everything.

 

In this world, we will suffer. I hope that’s not bad news for you. In reality, it should be bring us joy to know that in our suffering God walks with us. We don’t live under our circumstances, but we live holding the hand of our savior through every trial.

 

As Christians, we understand this. Non-Christians don’t. This is why we are called upon to live virtuous. That is to be kind and generous. We should let the fruit of the spirit rule our lives through the Holy Spirit. As you know, virtue doesn’t save us, but God uses it to bring people to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

 

This is why we are collecting food. We want to help others who are in-need! 

Our world is mixed up and upside down. It’s a terrible thing to seek success by climbing up that corporate ladder only to discover that you are leaning against the wrong wall. Equally, it is not the one with the most toys who wins in the end. It is often the one who sacrificed and gave up for the sake of others that true happiness and joy originate. 

We are but only a few days away from Black Friday – you know. It is when Christmas officially begins because of commercialization. People rush to get their things and they forget the most important of all priorities can only be found in Jesus.

 

In life we are encouraged to be successful. We are rewarded for being first. When we rush we can risk crashing. This last week I drove to Wisconsin by way of Chicago. It is ironic to think that people fly past you at 80 or 90 miles an hour only to end up at the same place as me. They risk their lives to get ahead, but, to what benefit? Today we’re learning about the benefits of a grateful heart. The final chapter in Philippians teaches us a few various essential values that we take to heart.

 

We all like the idea of Philippians 4:13. It tells us that we can do all things. That’s not exactly true. Put simply, in the context of which it is written, Paul is in chains. He could do all things. So we must start the message by helping us to understand the context to which this is written.

• It is written in a time of limitation – Paul is in chains.
• It is written in a time of suffering in hardship.
• It is written during circumstances that are less than ideal and especially for the apostle Paul clearly demonstrated a zeal in a passion in his ministry.

How should we understand this passage related to the rest of Philippians? We must understand that it is through peace and contentment that we can truly understand the joy of a living faith because of the work of the Holy Spirit.

 

This verse is often interpreted in the context of contentment, resilience, and divine empowerment.

 

Although we don’t have time to study yet, we have to remember that the Book of Acts is titled the Acts of the Apostles, but I tell you this, it is the Acts of the Holy Spirit through the Apostles & during the wonderful beginning of the church.

 

The gratitude funnel helps us to envision what it means to have a grateful heart. Each of these elements we have discussed through the writings of Paul. We now come to a couple that we will talk about that are related to one another. The idea that Paul wants us to know is that we can have a peace filled and contented life.

 

Max Lucado:

   - "It is not just that Christ empowers us; it’s that His strength is made perfect in our weaknesses. This verse reminds us that our limitations can become opportunities when we lean on His strength."

 

Yet, we are instructed to find peace even in our midst of broken pieces. We should race for the right things. For the approval of God and not the applause of mankind. We are told by Paul to stay true to God and resolve conflict. 

 

We must not worry about anything. (Philippians 4:6-7) Paul found peace when he understood that God will supply all his needs because God is generous and knows what we need. 

 

This is my testimony! I came from difficult times, but God used those experiences to shape me into who I am today. Though I’m not who I’m yet to be I praise the Lord that I’m not who I once was.

 

Life was not easy. There seemed to always be conflict. I had never felt like I measured up. I dealt with abuse – forms of injustice that occurred to me when I was vulnerable. Some find my story unbelievable but, God brought me through.

 

I found peace that passes all understanding.

 

Last week we learned that there is an eternal perspective that we must have about circumstances that we are dealing with. Though we cannot control the world or the things that happened to us, yet we can control – through the power of the Holy Spirit the effect that could have in our lives.

 

We don’t have to hold to resentment or pain or bitterness or hatefulness or anger or be frustrated in life. If we could see that God is writing his story in our lives – for his glory – it changes our perspective.

Also related to Philippians 4:13. It actually reads, “…all things through Christ.”

 

Wesleyan Anthology:

   - "Paul’s assertion in Philippians 4:13 speaks not to the triumph of human effort but to the divine support that enables believers to overcome all trials. The assurance of strength in Christ fosters a spirit of perseverance and faithful living."

 

Peace in the midst of broken pieces – this is how God does his best work in our lives – if we let him.

• We also must understand true contentment comes from God.

• Paul understood this and he tells us to put first things first. 

• We need to prioritize Jesus above all things.

 

It’s easy to have our list of problems about anything because if we do not find contentment, we will find complaints.

 

What is your deepest need? God knows! In fact, He is trying to work that out within us if we would let him. Think about what you struggle to achieve the most… Success? Money? Reputation? Better things? To be number one? These are things that are filled with vanity and none of them will we take with us.

 

Prayerbis surrendering unto God into in alignment to our priorities, according to the things of God, the scripture says that all other things will be added unto us, but first we must seek Hum! 

 

We need to depend upon Jesus in all things.

 

Paul’s circumstances were less than ideal yet he learned to be content whether he had plenty or was in need – whether he was full or empty. In either case he sought to depend upon God.

 

That, my friends is not easy. Life‘s filled with frustrations at all different levels: some of our own making and others because of somebody else’s doing.

 

I have to tell you that I would love to put a dummy thermostat in the Church sanctuary. Why? Because it doesn’t regulate your temperature yet we constantly adjust it to suit ourselves. It is intended to regulate the environment for which we occupy. If our internal thermostat is working, that is 98.5°, which makes us human and not lizards or fish, we will find true contentment no matter the environment we are in. Of course, she may have to grab a sweater or a jacket or a hat and maybe even find some mittens to help regulate your internal thermostat. Nevertheless, it’s easy to want to control the condition for everyone else.

 

I believe that there is a spiritual conditioning or a discipline that we learn as we grow in the Lord, and it is up to us as individuals to adjust to God‘s plan and in His environment.

 

Can I suggest that contentment is a learned response?

 

Look at the first couple of verses and you will see the conflict is inevitable within the church. The two ladies that are in conflict with one another are being encouraged to find harmony. How would you like to be recorded in the Bible for all eternity as having conflict with each other? They certainly had a reputation that Paul was trying to solve.

 

True peace and true contentment can only come through the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

 

In just a couple weeks, we will be studying the Christmas story. Within that story is an understanding that Jesus is the prince of peace, but at no time in history in the past present, nor in the future, will there be lasting peace. Only by coming to Jesus as individuals, humbled, and submitting to his will can peace and contentment exist.

 

Every peace accord or treaty or United Nations agreement have all been broken. It will happen again. Why? Because we are imperfect, and apart from God through the Holy Spirit work in our lives, it remains in probable and impossible for there to be lasting peace and contentment.

 

Yet we can have gratitude!

 

It starts with being thankful and then quickly moves to having the right attitude – knowing that we are blessed by God, and having the fruit of the spirit as a harvest of the heart and gaining a true knowledge of an eternal perspective. It is only then can we find peace and contentment in our own heart.

 

What is this number? Looking at the King James version of the translation of the book of Philippians, this is the number of words that are found here through a Greek translation. Paul uses over 2100 words to describe a single idea. He is Going on and on through illustration and principle, based on his own life and his relationship with God through Christ, that he resolves that joy is the main topic.

 

There’s a funny sketch that Bob Newhart does in a video you may have seen. He is sitting at his counselor‘s desk when a woman comes in and says that she needs help. He tells her that for 5 bucks he can solve her problem with just two words. It is simple! The punch line? He would tell them to, “STOP IT!”

 

I don’t want to simplify or minimize the circumstances for which we live. It is natural for us to worry and have fear. But, God will walk with us, no matter the circumstances. While I want us to understand that it is simple, we need to understand also that it is not easy. The things that we are dealing with in the concerns that we are confronted with are real. It is not practical to assume that we are to be removed from the world. However, God walks with us in and through every circumstance. We are being perfected, but it’s the work of the Holy Spirit.

 

As we consider our conclusion by summarizing those four or five things that Paul teaches us, we must begin with a heart of thankfulness. We then quickly move on to have the attitude of Christ who was humble and meek. We can have a life that is fruitful through the work of the Holy Spirit. And finally, we can receive peace that passes all understanding and contentment no matter how much or how little we have.

 

Paul certainly is grateful for the help that he received. Yet, Paul gives praise to God as well.

 Joy unspeakable and full of glory, this is what God has for us. It is at work from within through the power of the Holy Spirit at work in our lives.

 

Every good work of God must have a beginning. Today is your new beginning. As I ask these final questions I want to encourage each of us to come to God with open hands to receive what he wants to give to us.

 

Closing questions:

When was the last time you felt at peace? How did God supply what you needed? What is keeping you from finding contentment in Christ alone? 

 

Perhaps a summary verse that we can close our service with today would be the following: 

 

Philippians 4:6 reads:
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all He has done.

Weekly Devo: Benefits of a Grateful Heart - Eternal Perspective

What is the first thing you do when trouble comes? Me? I too often look down. You do too. Hardship is never easy. We are people that easily discover fear, anxiety, hurt, pain, frustration, and similar realities. Why? It is because we are looking down. What is at your feet? 

To hear this article when preached, click here. 

Paul gives testimony that in spite of his circumstances, he can find joy in the midst of trouble. We need to remind each other through testimony and the Word of God that can give us hope in spite of our circumstances. Trouble is difficult, no matter what the nature of the trouble being.

We are reminded that God is faithful in the midst of hardship. God does not disappoint. People will let us down and even betray our trust, yet we know of God‘s grace in the midst of hardship.

I’m grateful whenever I have the opportunity to chat with people about their faith journey. I believe that all of us have a story to tell. Though details may not be easy to tell about yet, we know that it tells us of God‘s faithfulness, no matter the circumstances. It also reminds us that we should help one another in every storm of life.

We can become downcast and discouraged in the circumstances of life. The series that we have been on have intended to explore what it means to have a grateful heart. 

Since this month is Thanksgiving, we’re focusing on others. It means that there are needs beyond ourselves. We are collecting nonperishables for the ministries of New Life as well as United With Love.

It starts with Thanksgiving and then it moves quickly into having the right attitude. But it goes further than that as we will see today. In my remaining moments, I want to quickly help us to understand how Paul can feel like he can run the race even though he’s in chains.

Paul says there is an eternal perspective we should consider. He doubles down on the opportunity for joy in the midst of his hardship. It is a view that requires faith and results in fruit! 

When we look up, we find a perspective that is renewed by our faith in God. It is never easy, but it gets easier. I heard it said that UP is where the sun can shine! (The sun above the clouds is always shining.) 

Paul says something similar in Philippians 3:14 when he writes, "I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us." 

I’ve been to a lot of track and field events. When I was a youth pastor, I would get to as many of these student events as I could. Having children that have participated in athletics, I have also enjoyed being their professional photographer. My boys were in football and track. (As well as my daughter but her specialty was in music.) Perhaps there’s something we could say that relates to our message? Paul says to put no confidence in the flesh! (Philippians 3:3-4)

Like the track event, the relay races, when you have to hand over the baton, you must look up, not down, to maintain the speed toward winning the prize. This is a relay when you can depend on God but run this race with others (on your team) to maximize the time and distance. The carrier of the "message stick" (aka, baton in ancient Greece) is telling your teammate to continue.

When was the last LONG race you had to run? How hard and long was it? Was it easier when you ran with others? How does it help you to know that Jesus is in the race with you?

Paul writes that we are to put no confidence in the flesh but in the spirit! The Bible says that we will bear fruit if we are disciples of Christ. Though our journey is not easy, we can discipline our bodies. The result is fruit that lasts! 

For we who worship by the Spirit of God are the ones who are truly circumcised. We rely on what Christ Jesus has done for us. We put no confidence in human effort, though I could have confidence in my own effort if anyone could. Indeed, if others have reason for confidence in their own efforts, I have even more! - Philippians 3:3-4

You’ll notice that I am comparing Philippians chapter 3 with Galatians chapter 5. What’s the connection? Paul indicates that we are to grow spiritually; by God’s Spirit. What does that mean? It means bearing fruit that will last.

The Bible says in Galatians: 22 and 23 what the fruit of the Spirit is. You’ll notice that it is not plural but singular. There are nine different identified values that are expressed in the spiritual fruit of the Spirit. Each of these nine is developed over time. They are given to us as gifts from God, but only as we walk in the Spirit of God.

Take a look at them. 

But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! (Gal. 5:22-24)

Turn them inside out and upside down and you will find that they are all related to love. That’s right, if you were to add these as ingredients in a recipe, the outcome would be love. You see, they are love, joy, peace, patience, (long-suffering), kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, & self-control. It further says that there is no law preventing these actions.

When we look at what suffering does to us, we should understand that it is intended to grow us and make us mature in Christ. I know that I am not who I once was, but I am not who I am yet to become. I am on a journey, or a race like Paul describes. Though I am running I have not yet obtained fully.

What’s today’s lesson? Paul is trying to help us to avoid the destruction of sin, but by growing in grace. We find that on this journey of gratitude, we must see God‘s kingdom at work within us. This is the fruitful life of a believer. It goes beyond religion, by the way. Religion works from the outside in, which could make us legalistic or narrow-minded but it can never make us whole! 

We know this because it is the result of a work within that is transforming us, and who we ought to be. Religion simply points the way, but a relationship with Christ becomes our way of life. The fruit of the Spirit changes us from within.

It goes without saying, but it perhaps needs to be said that we need the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome sin in our lives. It cannot be done through our own human efforts. We may achieve some, but it is not supernatural changes that are happening to us. If we are to be changed supernaturally, then we must recognize that it is God at work within us.

We know that Paul tells us to have joy, which is a product of the work of the Holy Spirit. Joy must come from beyond ourselves, but it does reside within us as we walk in the Spirit. We receive - in the Spirit - fruit that lasts.

Pressing toward the Goal:

I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. - Philippians 3:12.

Paul further tells us that we should abandon sin by replacing it with the disciplines as well as the fruit of the Spirit within us. While we may always have temptation, we can strengthen this spiritual body by exercising our faith through the Spirit of God.

We then must understand what it means to run the race even though Paul was in chains. There’s no question that Paul understood these things as he observed the Olympians of his time. They would train their body to achieve, while Paul is helping us to understand what it means to run this race with perseverance.

Paul says that not everyone receives the prize even though they run. So it’s not enough for us just to run or prepare to run or to strengthen our body; we must finish the race that is marked out for us.

Although Paul was in chains, he shared the gospel and sought after a spiritual perfection that did not come through the flesh but through the Spirit of God within him.

How many days did Paul spend in prison? Sometimes we quickly run through this and do not realize that, though his ministry was 14 years, part of his ministry was served in prison. 

He spent over 2,100 days in prison. It was there that he was able to see the gospel go further than it had ever gone in his missionary journeys. It went to Rome and even beyond to the other most parts of the world.

As I conclude this article, it would be imperative for me to give you the opportunity to pray that the Holy Spirit would deepen your walk within. Do you hunger for faith? Do you desire a deeper walk? Do you plan to live out your potential in Christ?

As I conclude this article, spend a minute asking God for his help. He is willing, through the Holy Spirit to help! 

As I close, let me read a key passage  that Paul reminds us:

I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. - Philippians 3:14

Weekly Devo: Benefits of a Grateful Heart - Attitude.

We are all more alike than different. We can develop an attitude - both good or bad. We might even find ourselves having an attitude that is resistant to change or rebellious to progress. We can become negative when things are not going well but when we have a grateful heart, we will usually find something good in every situation. (Listen to the message here.)

When somebody says that someone has an attitude, usually it means that you have a “chip on their shoulder.” That being said, it seems as though our world is filled with people who have that kind of attitude. Talk to anyone and they seem to be frustrated with life. The suffering of this world is like an irritant that gets under the skin of an injury, causing, redness, and discomfort. Yet, does it have to be that way? Do we have to be striving and uncomfortable with living?

I love what was put on our local sign at Lancaster Wesleyan Church. Thank you to my friend, Jesse for coming up with the same. It encourages us to come into his presence. Isn’t that what we are encouraged to do when we suffer? We don’t isolate from God, we come to God with humility.

This month, we are encouraging everyone to make contributions of non-perishable items that can be help serve the least, last, and lost of our community through our community grocery drive. We will take your contributions to support ministries the are being hit with needs. We will give these items to New Life Fellowship for their Meal Ministry as well as United With Love to help those with food insecurities. 

The author of Philippians, Paul, tells us to have the same attitude as Christ Jesus. He says, "You MUST have the same attitude that Jesus Christ had." (Philippians 2:5) Jesus taught on this as well. He shared this in the Sermon on the Mount where he told the people about the "beatitudes."  Recorded in Matthew 5:3-12, there are eight of them. Poor in spirit, those that mourn, the meek, hunger and thirst, need mercy, clean in heart, need peace, and those that are persecuted. In each circumstance, you will find the benefits as you trust in God, through Christ.

The term, “the beatitudes“ is an expression of optimism. It means to be blessed. “Beutus” means blessing. Yet, in suffering, it is hard to see the blessing. You seem to get stuck, realizing only the discomfort or problems rather than the solution.

Yet, in suffering, it is hard to see the blessing. You seem to get stuck, realizing only the discomfort or problems rather than the solution. I truly feel sorry for those who do not have Faith in God. It is, if they have no one, they can lean upon to help them through a time of grief, hardship, disappointment, and suffering. To be alone is the worst kind of suffering. Yet our Savior understands our circumstances. He suffered like us.

A friend of mine once said that, for every problem he faces, while he may feel downcast, he is looking for the “UP” in the problem. He believes that there is something good that can come out of hardship. He says, “If you look for it, you will find it” 

This week we need to look at the principles that can come out of the Sermon on the Mount. We can see that while we struggle, we can be blessed in Christ.

Take a look at the list in Matthew 5. Jesus is telling us that we are blessed in the midst of our hardship. I think we can draw parallels to even what Paul says in Philippians chapter 2. In that Sermon on the Mount that Jesus taught, he was teaching on suffering. Believe it or not, he indicated that those who suffer are blessed.

Let’s take a 30,000 foot level view of his sermon topic. 

1. Blessed Are: The Poor in Spirit. 

You’ve been there, haven’t you? It is that place where you feel low. You are impoverished as if you have nothing left. somebody call it depression while others may simply state that you need a little rest. Yet, it’s important to recognize that being poor in spirit is a reality in a time of suffering. 

what do we need most in that time? Some may call it seasonal depression because they are not out in the sunlight, soaking up the rays. I think it’s similar in that we are not in God’s sunlight soaking up his rays! Sonlight of Christ is what we need! 

We need his presence. Our text says that the kingdom of God is near! 

2. Blessed Are: Those Who Mourn.

Perhaps even today somebody is going through one of the various levels or the cycles of grieve. Sometimes it’s a parent that someone is dealing with a hard time. In other cases, it is camouflaged through busyness or putting on a happy face. 

We will suffer. It’s inevitable yet, for those who are in mourning, it is tragic. They are losing hope and dealing with loss that is personal to them.

3. Blessed Are: The Meek.

Consider what the word meekness means. Weakness is defined as an intentional act of controlled boldness. It is the act of intentionally holding back. We don’t think about it in that way, but it is a spiritual discipline that may not be natural. There are others who may see it as humility, but I think that it can be false humility often displayed in the form of weakness. However, weakness is not weakness. It is a decided strength.

What is the benefit? They get to inherit the earth! They are the ones who get an inheritance because they “give up” their rights! 

4. Blessed Are: Those Who Hunger and Thirst.

This one is curious to me because Jesus is talking about the physical reality as well as the spiritual. We get it because we grow hungry and we get thirsty. Jesus indicated that the poor we will always have with us, and that we ought to worship Jesus instead of harboring in the fails god of negative circumstances. We can find ourselves dwelling in our circumstances and holding onto our suffering. 

However, Jesus is going deeper than that because he’s talking about righteousness rather than simply physical needs. He is helping us to understand that there is a hunger that the world cannot fill, but only through Jesus can our real spiritual needs to be met. While the world is grasping at things, we are taking hold of God as He embraces us.

5. Blessed Are: Merciful.

This too is a curious one to me. I considered mercy something we give as a gift but Jesus seems to say that it is a hang-up. He seems to be saying that as we give, we will also receive. It is truly a benefit rather than something that is lost.

I like what the devotional through light from the word indicated on Halloween, October 31. That by the way was Reformation Day. Nevertheless, Laurie Dashnau Gave commentary about Jesus washing his disciples feet. 

She says:

It’s a strange equation, indeed. Jesus didn’t say we will be overwhelmed, exhausted, and sometimes tempted to become bitter and jaded. What’s more, a Greek word used here means “very blessed” or even “supremely blessed.” The skeptic in us might consider this word, choice, idealistic, or hyperbolic.“

She goes onto to indicate in reference of Proverbs 11:25 which reads: “whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” We are blessed in serving others. It is indeed a blessing to serve others as indicated in John 13:17.

What is he saying? He is helping us to understand that God‘s promises are true, and that as we faithfully serve others, in the name of Christ, we two will be blessed. As we refresh others, we two are refreshed!

6. Blessed Are: Pure of Heart.

I don’t know about you, but I seem to get ridiculed for doing something right. I’ve heard it said that ‘no good deed goes unpunished.’ I think Jesus is trying to help us to understand is that we will not be popular as we strive to have a pure heart. Yet, the blessing is that we will see God! We will receive a reward because of our purity of heart.

Who would’ve thought that in this upside down world and inside out thinking that having a pure heart would be a negative condition?

7. Blessed Are: The Peacemakers.

This too, is curious to me. The conflict that there is in peacemaking is very unique. As we make every attempt to resolve a matter of dispute, we end up often on the losing end. It is the peacemaker who has to make the sacrifice necessary to resolve the conflict of others. We live in a broken and selfish world! 

When I served as a pastor in Elkhart, Indiana, I was running a shoplifting clinic while serving as a Probation Officers for the county Court Services. One of the curriculums that we developed in used came out of the Mennonite Church. My class attempted to bring correction to a societal issue where something was taken, and that something needed to be returned. We would tell our students that because they took it, to resolve their problem that something needed to be returned. We called it reconciliation.

Mediation was also a part of the class that I taught as related not only theft, but also school violence. It required a peacemaker, someone who chose to solve the issue of brokenness. Peacemakers were needed. Our mediators were volunteers that met with students and parents to talk about issues of conflict and.theft. 

8. Blessed Are: Those Who Are Persecuted. 

Now, especially, we find this one that is relatable. Even though we are not persecuted to the degree, that other countries and international Christians are, nevertheless persecution is a hard thing. last Sunday was the international day for the persecuted church, this week we honor our veterans as I am writing this to you now. In these cases, we find that there are similarities. There is indeed those who sacrifice for the protections of the freedoms and rights that are given to us by God, and there are those who suffer and sacrifice for the sake of the things of God.

What is the reward? They shall inherit the kingdom of Heaven! 

Aren't you glad that all eight of these principles don’t come all at once? Though we deal with difficulties, it is good to know that they are spread out through life’s journey. Whether they are physical, financial, relational, or emotional, they come in waves. We could say that this is Grace because we are given the opportunity to recover that we are pressed on every side.

Let’s parallel what was said in Philippians chapter 2. Certainly, you may recall that Paul is in prison. It is in this missionary trip that he was compelled by the Holy Spirit to go that we read about an Acts 16; it was there that he was imprisoned. At that time, the prison doors opened, which allowed him to be free and able to share the gospel and even begin the church. 

Now, many years has passed. At least 10 years has gone by and Paul is now dealing with the persecution at a whole new level. He is in prison in Rome. It is there that he writes this and three other books; Ephesians, Colossians, and Philemon. It is from an even more difficult prison cell that he further wrote several other books includbg Timothy and other personal books of instruction to leaders and the early church. 

Let’s pull out some takeaways from this passage as well that teach us about how to be grateful as well as the benefits. As we review the benefits and the topics of this article and series, we see that everything begins with thanksgiving. Now we see that our attitude matters in the Gratefulness Funnel. 

We now look to the attitude of Christ!

1. Be Like Christ. (vs 1-3)

One of the problems of suffering is that we can tend to turn inward. Well, it may be natural for us to guard our situation, it is important to know that we need one another and especially in difficult times. we can learn to trust each other and depend upon each other in hard times.

Jesus is the example we can relate to. 

“Lowliness of mind” is the translation of humility! Skip Heitzig defines this as greasing the wheels of relationships. He helps us to know that pride or vanity te “idea of your own importance.” he goes on to illustrate it by sharing about a Puffer Fish. They swell up by filling with water to look bigger! It is their defence but it is not s for humans and His church. 

2. Be Light. (vs 12-13)

We find that God is with us. Though our circumstances be dire, God is near. Paul makes it very clear that God is doing His best  work in us when we struggle and suffer. It is like a purifying act that refines our character! 

Like the pot and the clay, he is shaping us in who we ought to be.

He is telling us that we shine as lights in a dark world. 

He is grinding out even some of the rough areas. 

Consider the refinement and strength of iron. Some may be able to relate to this because you have worked doing foundry work. But the metal needs to be strengthened by reheating and at even higher temperatures so that the molten metal is purified. It’s called the refiner's fire.

3. Be Willing. (vs 22 & 27)

Paul continues to write about two very important examples through the lives of Timothy and Epaphroditus. 

Paul is sending Timothy because he is realizing that he must pour himself into younger people.as a church, we should see our primary function as leaders of this church to pour into the life of young people so that this church may carry on into the next generation. How do you think they did it in the past? It was simple, they raised the standard and raised young people to carry on the work of ministry for their generation!

Paul is also giving compliment to the message carrier who has not only brought the necessary funds from Philippi, but has also become very ill to the point of near death. In his suffering, he can encourage the church to carry on their faithful work.

So, how does this relate to attitude? We can clearly see it because Paul is telling them to have a good attitude that is bringing life to others. To see the positive rather than the negative.

In the Hollywood movie, Evan Almighty, we find it illustrated. God calls a simple man to achieve an enormous resolve. He is asked by God to build a modern day arc. I do not want to spoil the film, but let me show you an excerpt from that in which we can relate. It’s about an attitude adjustment that we need.

In the Hollywood movie, Evan Almighty, we find it illustrated. God calls a simple man to achieve an enormous resolve. He is asked by God to build a modern day arc. I do not want to spoil the film, but let me show you an excerpt from that in which we can relate. It’s about an attitude adjustment that we need.

Evan Almighty, the main character has been doing what God asked him to do, but his wife is unsure. Because he is ridiculed and has created a great deal of stress in all of the circumstances, we find his wife sitting at a café, talking to a waiter who represents God through Morgan Freeman. In which the character says to her.

The depiction of God speaking through Morgan Freedman; God answered her prayer and brought her family closer together. He said, like the animals that came side-by-side, she was praying that her family would come closer together, and which God gave her the opportunity rather than just a pie in the sky experience. Her attitude needed to change.

I believe that it is our attitude that will determine our altitude.

Rejoice! A deep joy from withOUT that can only come from one source, Jesus! Paul illustrated this by stating that he is like watering being poured out for the sake of Christ. 

When do you find yourself in greatest need? What situation has you feeling trapped? 

Look up because it is where you will find your deliverance. Open your arms and you will receive God's embrace. Endure and you will find eternal hope. 

10,000. This is a big number when you consider that Paul travel by foot.

Did you know that before all modern forms of transportation, Paul often walked or rode on horseback to get to places?  He usually stopped to stay overnight along his journey to reach others during his 4 missionary journeys. Do you know how many miles Paul traveled during his missionary journeys? It is estimated that he traveled 10,000 miles over a time of 14 years. He traveled locally as well as to the uttermost parts of the world. 

How could we do any less?  Considering all the modern ways we travel - planes, trains, and automobiles, we struggle to simply tell those who are nearest about Jesus?

We are encouraged by Paul to shine for God's Glory!

Weekly Devo: Benefits of a Grateful Heart - Suffering

We like benefits. Benefits from membership, cash back coupons, rebates, refunds, BOGO sales, and even the benefits from someone else paying it forward. This month we will see the benefits of a grateful heart. Indeed, we can be grateful for the blessings of faith yet, we don't always count it a blessing from suffering! 

Suffering is NOT something that we enjoy nor do we race toward. It is something that we will want to avoid if at all possible. When we are sick, we seek an immediate solution from a physician. When we are distressed, we go to others to alleviate our mental health. We turn to friends when we are in trouble; receiving professional intervention when we are having problems. The world is filled with professionals like psychologist, lawyers, physicians, mental health specialists, technicians, electricians, and even pastors. We look toward others when we are in trouble and in distress.

As I write this blog and preparing to preach on Sunday, I can hear the television commercial in the other room that encourages us to file with lawyers when we have had something difficult in our lives. Whether medical malpractice or accidental death and injury, we are told that we can receive compensation. In our suffering, we would quickly blame others. We also want reparations for our losses and compensation in our difficulties.

This is the way of the world … not so with God! I am not advocating that you should not seek legal advice. I am simply saying that this will not prepare us for heaven. While it makes life more comfortable this side of heaven, yet, it does not solve our spiritual needs. 

Even in our deepest struggles, often our instinct is to seek compensation and blame others for our misfortunes. It’s a natural response to want reparations for our losses. However, as we navigate our challenges, we must remember that God calls us to a higher perspective.

So, as part of this blog in sermon series, I would encourage us to bring non-perishable goods that we can give away to Ministries that we support: New Life Ministries and United With Love  Huntington County, Indiana.

We seek to solve those things that are inconvenient, uncomfortable, and seemingly unresolved. Many search for solutions in the wrong place. Self-determined will or quickly to give up are the extremes that many will turn to. While it's not wrong to seek assistance, we must recognize that worldly solutions alone will not prepare us for the blessings of Heaven. Taking comfort in this life is essential, yet it must not overshadow our spiritual needs. 

It is ultimately self-serving. 

No one likes to suffer. We may even feel like it is a curse to suffer. Yet, the Bible tell us that when we suffer for the right cause or have the right attitude, we can rejoice. Paul tells us this in Philippians, while he was in prison, he tells us that "(He) who began a good work within you, will continue His work until it is finally finished...." (Phil. 1:6)

When we read Philippians, we are encouraged to have joy. Much like what was written in book of James when we are to consider a pure joy when we suffer. Yet, suffering is something we want to ignore. I hate to see it in others, but we ourselves will avoid it at any cost. We might even turn to excuses or blaming when suffering occurs. Yet, Paul, who is in prison and suffering for Christ helps us to understand how we are to respond when we suffer.

I believe that there are benefits to gratitude. If we are grateful for what God is doing innocent through us, we will look to him, and by being grateful find benefits during times of suffering.

Today, I want to talk about a couple of them that we find in the first chapter and throughout this month. I want us to talk about the issue of suffering as it pertains to thankfulness. Most especially, what does it mean to have gratitude! 

This month we will be looking at the benefits of gratitude. Today I’m talking about suffering, but the rest of this month I will be also dealing with subjects to include: Attitude, Eternal Perspectives, and Contentment and Peace. These topics will lead us to an understanding of the benefits of gratitude.

For today, we need to look at chapter one of Philippians. 

Within this chapter, we find that there are several key points that are takeaways. Let me share a few.

1. First of all, Paul is writing a thank you note to the people in Philippi who were helping him during his imprisonment. (Read Philippians 1:3)

A benefit that Paul received was monetary, but it also is filled with relationships by other believers. Their gifts were more than financial; they signified a deep relational bond among believers. Those in New Testament prisons relied on the generosity of others. When we contribute, we build up the church and support God's work.

- We see that they send someone with the gifts to support him.

There is no other way that a prisoner can be helped except through gifts. Those who were imprisoned in New Testament days were completely dependent on the generosity of others. 

Though Paul benefited financially, he was encouraging the Philippians to also recognize their contribution to their ministry as well. Paul started the church and it was growing because of a good foundation that Paul had established.

Suffering is something none of us willingly embrace. It’s not a destination we aim for; rather, it’s an experience we strive to avoid. When we find ourselves unwell, we seek doctors to remedy our physical ailments. In times of emotional distress, we may turn to friends, family, or professionals to help alleviate our pain. There are countless experts in the world—psychologists, lawyers, pastors, and more—ready to lend support in our moments of need.

2. We also find out that Paul is rejoicing in his suffering because the Word (the message of Christ) is going forth. (Philippians 1:20-24)

Another benefit that we see is that Paul is able to share the message of Christ in the midst of his suffering. He is encouraging the Philippians to have joy in their suffering.

In verses 20-24, Paul emphasizes that he is rejoicing because the message of Christ is still being proclaimed amidst his suffering. Just as athletes develop strength through training, we cultivate perseverance and character through our trials. Remember, as believers, we are not exempt from suffering; instead, through our challenges, our faith can flourish.

As we grow in our faith, like an athlete, we develop perseverance in our suffering, and we gain strength through difficulties. We can run the race further as we endure suffering, and especially in our faith. To avoid suffering is to limit our potential in Christ.

- The reality is that we will suffer. This life is not fair. 

Of course it is similarly unfair, but we are all subject to suffering. Physical limitations, and health restrictions contribute to an uncomfortable life. He yet, for those of us that have faith in Christ we benefit by the character that is built as as well as our ability to be grateful in all circumstances

No one chooses to suffer, but since we likely will suffer, we can find our faith strengthened.

- It is also the reality that we will be persecuted for our faith.

Though we don’t really understand persecution in this country, nevertheless, we will face hardships and difficulty as we profess our faith and uphold the Cross of Christ. If it were easy, they would not call it Faith

- Paul was in great discomfort and persecuted, but for him to die is a great gain.

Notice that in this occasion, the prison doors in the chains did not fall off miraculously as it did in the time he was in Philip. See Acts 16. (Caused by persecution when Paul cast out the demon in a young slave girl. (Acts 16:16)  Paul welcomed persecution if it meant sharing the gospel, but in the time that he wrote Philippi, the prison doors did not swing open, but the gospel did go out among all of the Roman government through his prison ministry.

Paul would rather live. He’s not saying that he wants to die. Yet, he is telling us and the people in Philippi that though he suffers, to the point of death, it is a reward to him because of his journey with Christ.

3. When we look closely at the text, we find that he is encouraging others who suffer because they are partakers in his suffering. (Philippians 1:27-29)

As believers, and even what we demonstrated through missions, month, we take part in the suffering of others through our acts of kindness and resources.

- We have the opportunity to help one another. Virtue doesn’t save us, but we ask what is our salvation for?

It’s important for us to realize that in our suffering, it doesn’t increase the potential of heaven, rather, it brings others to the opportunity of faith in Christ. Suffering is a part of life, but as we express virtue, we bring others to Faith. We should never tell people that life will be perfect when we come to Faith. We know that life is better because of our relationship with Christ and the benefits we receive in Faith yet, we are enduring for the sake of Christ when we are suffering for Christ! 

Finally, in verses 27-29, Paul encourages the church to participate in the sufferings of others. Our acts of kindness impact lives, extending the love of Christ. True virtue does not save us, but our faith and actions can draw others closer to God. Life does not automatically become perfect with faith; rather, we can find purpose in our challenges, knowing that God’s presence transforms our trials into tools for growth and connection.

A key verse is actually my life verse. Philippians 1:6 is encouraging the people in Philippi that God has created a good work within them and will carry it on completion! We know that we are completely dependent upon our Lord, Jesus Christ. As we have faith in him, he will help us to endure through the hardships that we experience the side of heaven. While the kingdom of God is active in our world today, we are not exempt from hardships in difficulties that help us to grow in our dependency on God through Christ Jesus. 

As we conclude today’s message, I invite you to reflect on this week’s study. What are the sufferings you are currently facing? How have you discovered faith, hope, and resilience in these difficulties? Let your experiences and answers form the basis of your testimony about God’s enduring goodness.

So the beginning of this blog series is to remind us to be thankful. We looked at Paul’s letter to the church in Philippi, which was a thank you for their support.

So, the beginning of this series is to remind us to be thankful. We looked at Paul’s letter to the church in Philippi, which was a thank you for their support.

Did you know that the longest thank you note was over 400 meters? It is nearly taller than the Empire State Building with 270,000 signatures. Check it out here.

As we wrap up the study for this week, take time to answer the questions on your own: 

What is your present suffering?  When have you found faith and hope in your hardship? How have you been able to trust God more through your difficulty?