Do you find it easier to give than receive? I’d rather be the “have” than the “have-not.” It has something to do with pride, ego, what will others think of me, . . . I’m learning. It didn’t bother Paul to be on the receiving end. He reveled in the gifts and said “thank you.”… Read More
Philippians 4:14-16 Support
We aren’t all called to take on the challenges that Paul’s life was so full of. But we are all called on to support each other. Philippians 4:14-16 (The Message) It was a beautiful thing that you came alongside me in my troubles. You Philippians well know, and you can be sure I’ll never forget… Read More
Philippians 4:11-14 Gradual journey to joy
Is my joy growing? The answer to that question indicates the condition of my heart. Philippians 4:11-14 (The Message) Actually, I don’t have a sense of needing anything personally. I’ve learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I’m just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little.… Read More
Philippians 4:11-14 What does it take?
Do my circumstances determine my level of contentment? Or can I say, with Paul, that where I am, what I have, my state of health, … none of that really matters because God is with me? I can be on the mountain top or deep in the mucky shadows; I can experience feast or famine;… Read More
Philippians 4:10
We are made to belong to each other, to be loved. And when those who love us also pray on our behalf, we are truly blessed. Philippians 4:10 (The Message) I’m glad in God, far happier than you would ever guess—happy that you’re again showing such strong concern for me. Not that you ever… Read More
Philippians 4:8-9 Putting into practice all I’ve learned
If my mind is full of these Godly thoughts–true, honorable, right, pure, lovely and admirable thoughts–will my life reflect them? As I heard from Marty Schmidt Sunday morning, it was Paul (also an imperfect human) who said, “Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me… Read More
Philippians 4:8 Harmless entertainment–is it really harmless?
While I ate my lunch today I watched a television drama about murder and evil supernatural beings that are all around us. But there were two human protagonists who always conquered. Humans could overcome evil. There is not truth in that–a human heart which contains sin defeating evil–unless that human is not relying on him-… Read More
