Chapter 2: Our Time to Shine
The Apostle Paul is the author of the book of Philippians. Last week, we discussed a little about his background, his purpose for writing this letter, and his challenging circumstances during that time. As previously stated, Paul was in prison but used it as an opportunity to share the good news of Christ. His perspective was of joy, trust, thanksgiving, and confidence in God. It is my prayer that this outlook will help us to live life from God’s perspective in our daily life. I believe this one change from a self-focused life to a God-centered life, will radically change our overall quality of life for the better.
Paul starts Chapter 2 with an “if” challenge. According to Philippians 2:1-2, Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from His love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. This “if” challenge requires us to assess who we are in Christ, what we believe, where we are in our faith, and how we demonstrate love. Many of you may be facing challenging circumstances that cause you to feel alone but Chapter 2 has provided clear instructions to help us to hold on to God’s unchanging hand. In my Bible, this chapter is titled, “Imitating Christ’s Humility.”
Humility is not a sign of weakness but of strength. Therefore, we can walk upright and with boldness in the knowledge that God is with us. We are told in Philippians 2:14-15, Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky. It's our time to shine! Don’t delay your shine for another day!
Next week, we will continue our Bible study by reviewing Chapter 3. This deeper dive will help us to live life from God’s perspective. Don’t forget, by purchasing the Re-Imagining Contentment electronic journal pages from our Etsy store, a portion of all funds will be donated to support Hurricane Ian relief efforts in Florida. Also, if you have been blessed by Re-Imagining Contentment, I want to hear from you. Please share your testimony by sending it via email to: reimaginingcontentment@gmail.com.
As always, thank you for your love and continued support! Join me in prayer to change hearts, to heal our land, and for the contentment and peace to handle whatever should come up! I am so thankful to each of you for joining me on this journey to re-imagine contentment in 2022!
Always look for the Remarkable in your life!
Dr. ReShone
Comments