Pastor’s Corner – September 24, 2023
Words of Encouragement from Paul (I)
About fifteen years after the death and resurrection of Jesus, Paul writes a letter to the first house church he founded in Macedonia (northern Greece), in the city of Philippi. Paul is writing from prison, uncertain about his survival. And yet, this letter is marked by gratitude and a spirit of joy and rejoicing in Christ.
Like Paul, we know what it’s like to face adversity and uncertainty. May Paul’s words of encouragement bring hope and renewal of joy and faith to you.
Paul begins his letter with this prayer: I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now (Philippians 1:3-5).
In these few words we find some faithful advice and encouragement for times of challenge.
· Prayer is the most important daily action we take. Connecting with our Creator, Provider, Sustainer, and Savior steadies us, renews us, and gets our priorities straight. Tell God openly and honestly what is on your heart. There is power for change and healing in speaking the truth about ourselves to God. God understands, accepts, and gives us the wisdom and strength to see us through our situation. This process of speaking and listening to and receiving help from God, will almost always lead to thanksgiving. Lamentation and gratitude go together.
· Even in adversity keep on sharing the gospel—the good news about the grace of God in Christ. In fact, when we are feeling vulnerable, we are in the right place to speak and live good news into the lives of others who are feeling vulnerable. Empathy is a powerful tool of discipleship.
Try this advice from Paul and see if you discover the gift of encouragement.
Yours in Christ,
Marc
