April 7th & 11th, 2021

I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 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 1:3-6 NIV

And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.

—Philippians 1:9-11

1. Quit asking

Reveal Answer

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

Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel.

—Philippians 1:12

2. Begin asking

Reveal Answer

As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 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 1:13-14

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

—Romans 8:28

3. Shift to what

Reveal Answer

It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice.

—Philippians 1:15-18

If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it.

—Matthew 10:39

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

—Philippians 1:21

FILL OUT YOUR CONNECTION CARD HERE
- Today, I accept Jesus in my life for the first time.
- I will read the book of Philippians this week.
- I will make a list of what really matters in my life.
- I will continue to look for ways to impact a family this week.