The surrounding context is a prayer for the Philippians on behalf of Paul. He is mindful of the shared ministry they have in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul was fully aware of their faith, its origin and maturation. What is noteworthy is that in every step along the way, God was with the Philippians. His purpose was to bring their faith to completion because that is what is in His heart. In this prayer, the active one is God. The Philippians are the passive recipients of God’s grace.
There is no difference between the Philippians and you. God’s desire for you is the same as His desire for them. In the heart of God is a gracious longing to bring all into salvation—wholeness. I wonder how often we miss this. How often are we consumed with where we have fallen short, made mistakes, blown it, or sinned? We focus on what isn’t, God focuses on what is and that is His grace and mercy. His desire is to make you whole. It is a gift given, not something earned.
Therefore, my brothers and sisters, if you ever wonder what God thinks about you…look at Philippians 1:6. That will tell you what He thinks.
This week’s reading:
- Monday – 1 Corinthians 2
- Tuesday – 1 Corinthians 3
- Wednesday – 1 Corinthians 4
- Tuesday – 1 Corinthians 5
- Wednesday – 1 Corinthians 6
- Administrative Staff settling in the newly renovated office spaces.
- The St. Paul Church family.
- Those who are unwillingly absent.
- Those who are grieving and depressed.
- The United Methodist Church.
- Our nation and our leaders.
- The World.