Rising Above Our Circumstances Through God in Us
Paul was sitting in prison, waiting on a trial that ultimately could end his life. His death was potentially right around the corner. But Paul was on a mission. He was devoted to a purpose. He knew what he was sent to do. He knew who his Creator was. He knew who his Savior was. He knew that in life or in death, either way the outcome was good.
Image courtesy of: Derek R Goulet
Scripture:
“And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.” – Philippians 1:14
Observation/Application:
Paul had an eternal perspective. Without that understanding of who he was and where he was going, death might mentally send some of us off the deep end. We might freak out, become crippled by our flesh, and/or just lose our minds. But with the right perspective, Paul handles this in stride. He knows that either way, this story ends well. It’s like a movie with two endings, and both endings are good! As a matter of fact, from his perspective, reuniting with Christ and returning to our Father in heaven is the best path.
So Paul keeps on chugging along. His ministry continues. His train is not derailed. There is no optional. And it’s easy because from God’s perspective it’s all good. Paul’s circumstances of sitting in prison did not dictate his outcome. He knows the outcome, God has already declared the ending. God has already defeated death and the grave, and the devil himself.
And since we know that God is our Protector, how much do we really have to fear? A famous quote from Franklin D. Roosevelt that shows Godly insight is, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” Paul gives us a great example of how we can walk in confidence, in spite of our circumstances, knowing that God has a plan for us. And further, that we can be “confident of this, that he who began a good work in us will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” – (Philippians 1:6).
God is with us. He will never leave of forsake us. With God on our side, we have already won. There is nothing impossible for God. We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. Praise God. Let us be encouraged by this lesson in how the Spirit of God can manifest in us as we walk with unshakeable joy, peace and love in spite of our circumstances. Let us be humbled and inspired knowing that this level of supernatural peace and hope and confidence can only come from God our Father.
I call you blessed!
#It’s-All-Good-With-God
Prayer:
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for your Word today. We are so humbled and blessed to know that you gave us your Word so that we might come to know you. Let your Word penetrate our hearts and minds and transform us from the inside out. Let your Word turn our circumstances around into supernatural outcomes that are led by your Holy Spirit within us. We know that all good things come from you Lord, and we give you all the honor and glory and praise, in Jesus mighty name. Amen.
Today’s full reading: Song of Solomon 5-8; Philippians 1
Scripture References From Today’s Reflection:
- “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” – James 1:2-4
- “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33
- “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 1:6
- “Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” – Matthew 19:26
- “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” – Deuteronomy 31:6
- “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
- “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” – Hebrews 13:5
- “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe” – Hebrews 12:28
- “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God,” – Ephesians 2:8
- “I am torn between the two (life and death): I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far;” – Philippians 1:23
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