Thoughts from Philippians 1:3-11

Blogger is losing my words today! It is good to be back into routine, however it was good to get away from the daily demands. I am posting a few points from the sermon I will be giving tomorrow night at a seniors service in my community. The title of my sermon is "Thanksgiving and Prayer"--It is Thanksgiving on Monday here in Canada.

Philippians 1:3-5 Point One:Paul viewed the past with a thankful heart to God.

In this passage, Paul demonstrates how to view the past by having a thankful heart towards God for all that he has been given. He was able to be content because when he looked at the past he did so with a thankful heart. He recognized that in Christ he was able to do all things and the key was to be thankful for God’s direction and the encouragement he received from other believers.

Philippians 1:6-8 Point Two: Paul viewed the present with confidence in what God is doing.

As Paul remembers and thinks about the Christians in Philippi, he was flooded with emotions for them. He longed for them with all of his heart, and he loved them with a love that is found in Christ. Paul had confidence in these believers and confidence that God would continue to lead them no matter what they faced on their journey.

Philippians 1: 9-11 Point Three: Paul’s outlook on the future is prepared with prayer to God for the Philippians.

For each of us to face the future and all that we might experience with the same confidence that these Christians from Philippi had, we too must live each day close to God. Thanking Him daily for all that he has done in our life.

What will your reactions and choices be concerning the circumstances you will experience in life? Will you look at the past with doubt or thanksgiving? Will you look at the present with fearfulness or confidence? Will you look at the future with anxiety or push forward with prayer? Will you rely on your own strength, or will you rely on the strength Christ freely gives as you look to Him? What will be true in your life story?

Father God, guide each person who reads these thoughts to turn to you seeking direction from your Spirit. Direct us into your love and help us Lord to persevere in Christ no matter what we might experience in this life. I pray we will learn to be thankful in all situations as Paul did. Christ in your name there is power to do the will of our Father. Amen.

With Love Robin

Be sure to check out the inspirational writings at Spiritual Sundays. Thanks to Ginger and Charlotte for hosting this site and encouraging us today to seek the Lord.

P.S Snow arrived in Saskatoon this week and the trees where not ready! Amazing that the picture above was taken only seven days before the snow hit Canada.