Quiet Times Search

Search Quiet Times via a keyword or string
Keyword(s):
Book:
Number of Studies:


Searching Study Notes for "" in Philippians
Displaying results from "" to "". (238 found)

Power of Gratitude - Badly out of Focus
Children - they notice the one toy they do not have even with having a dozen other toys - how do we do?

Gratitude and ingratitude are based on our focus in life
  • Negatives - ingratitude
  • Positives - gratitude
You can tell the size of the person by the size of things it takes to make him angry

Philippians 4:8 - think about these things
Philippians 4:12-13 - secret to being content in any and every situation

Being content is a decision - 10% what happens to us; 90% how we react to the situation

Romans 8:38-39 - nothing can separate us from the love of God

Power of Gratitude - Badly out of Focus
Children - they notice the one toy they do not have even with having a dozen other toys - how do we do?

Gratitude and ingratitude are based on our focus in life
  • Negatives - ingratitude
  • Positives - gratitude
You can tell the size of the person by the size of things it takes to make him angry

Philippians 4:8 - think about these things
Philippians 4:12-13 - secret to being content in any and every situation

Being content is a decision - 10% what happens to us; 90% how we react to the situation

Romans 8:38-39 - nothing can separate us from the love of God

Power of Gratitude - Badly out of Focus
Children - they notice the one toy they do not have even with having a dozen other toys - how do we do?

Gratitude and ingratitude are based on our focus in life
  • Negatives - ingratitude
  • Positives - gratitude
You can tell the size of the person by the size of things it takes to make him angry

Philippians 4:8 - think about these things
Philippians 4:12-13 - secret to being content in any and every situation

Being content is a decision - 10% what happens to us; 90% how we react to the situation

Romans 8:38-39 - nothing can separate us from the love of God

Power of Gratitude - Is This All There Is?
Most of the physical pursuits of life (Ecclesiastes) are substitutes for what we really need - a relationship with God

"Whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ" - Philippians 3:7-11

The answer - to be totally immersed in my relationship with God through Christ
To know God in such a way and at such a level that all else pales into comparision
When this level is reached, nothing else will matter:
  • Not position
  • Not recognition
  • Not performance
  • Not respect
Fear of death will lose its hold

"For to me to live is Christ and to die is gain" - Philippians 1:21

Thankful books

Do it just before going to bed every night
God is too good for us not express gratitude
Ideas: come up with 7 areas of gratitude and incorporate one area into your prayers each day
  • Physical blessings
  • Family blessings
  • Spiritual blessings


Power of Gratitude - Is This All There Is?
Most of the physical pursuits of life (Ecclesiastes) are substitutes for what we really need - a relationship with God

"Whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ" - Philippians 3:7-11

The answer - to be totally immersed in my relationship with God through Christ
To know God in such a way and at such a level that all else pales into comparision
When this level is reached, nothing else will matter:
  • Not position
  • Not recognition
  • Not performance
  • Not respect
Fear of death will lose its hold

"For to me to live is Christ and to die is gain" - Philippians 1:21

Thankful books

Do it just before going to bed every night
God is too good for us not express gratitude
Ideas: come up with 7 areas of gratitude and incorporate one area into your prayers each day
  • Physical blessings
  • Family blessings
  • Spiritual blessings


Power of Gratitude - Is This All There Is?
Most of the physical pursuits of life (Ecclesiastes) are substitutes for what we really need - a relationship with God

"Whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ" - Philippians 3:7-11

The answer - to be totally immersed in my relationship with God through Christ
To know God in such a way and at such a level that all else pales into comparision
When this level is reached, nothing else will matter:
  • Not position
  • Not recognition
  • Not performance
  • Not respect
Fear of death will lose its hold

"For to me to live is Christ and to die is gain" - Philippians 1:21

Thankful books

Do it just before going to bed every night
God is too good for us not express gratitude
Ideas: come up with 7 areas of gratitude and incorporate one area into your prayers each day
  • Physical blessings
  • Family blessings
  • Spiritual blessings


Power of Gratitude - Is This All There Is?
Most of the physical pursuits of life (Ecclesiastes) are substitutes for what we really need - a relationship with God

"Whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ" - Philippians 3:7-11

The answer - to be totally immersed in my relationship with God through Christ
To know God in such a way and at such a level that all else pales into comparision
When this level is reached, nothing else will matter:
  • Not position
  • Not recognition
  • Not performance
  • Not respect
Fear of death will lose its hold

"For to me to live is Christ and to die is gain" - Philippians 1:21

Thankful books

Do it just before going to bed every night
God is too good for us not express gratitude
Ideas: come up with 7 areas of gratitude and incorporate one area into your prayers each day
  • Physical blessings
  • Family blessings
  • Spiritual blessings


Power of Gratitude - Is This All There Is?
Most of the physical pursuits of life (Ecclesiastes) are substitutes for what we really need - a relationship with God

"Whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ" - Philippians 3:7-11

The answer - to be totally immersed in my relationship with God through Christ
To know God in such a way and at such a level that all else pales into comparision
When this level is reached, nothing else will matter:
  • Not position
  • Not recognition
  • Not performance
  • Not respect
Fear of death will lose its hold

"For to me to live is Christ and to die is gain" - Philippians 1:21

Thankful books

Do it just before going to bed every night
God is too good for us not express gratitude
Ideas: come up with 7 areas of gratitude and incorporate one area into your prayers each day
  • Physical blessings
  • Family blessings
  • Spiritual blessings


Power of Gratitude - Is This All There Is?
Most of the physical pursuits of life (Ecclesiastes) are substitutes for what we really need - a relationship with God

"Whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ" - Philippians 3:7-11

The answer - to be totally immersed in my relationship with God through Christ
To know God in such a way and at such a level that all else pales into comparision
When this level is reached, nothing else will matter:
  • Not position
  • Not recognition
  • Not performance
  • Not respect
Fear of death will lose its hold

"For to me to live is Christ and to die is gain" - Philippians 1:21

Thankful books

Do it just before going to bed every night
God is too good for us not express gratitude
Ideas: come up with 7 areas of gratitude and incorporate one area into your prayers each day
  • Physical blessings
  • Family blessings
  • Spiritual blessings


Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Together Forever
No eye has seen,
 No ear has heard
  No mind has conceived
   What God has prepared for those who love him - 1 Corinthians

Our Journey to heaven is like a race:
  • If you start too fast, you can die
  • The most important thing is finishing
  • Cannot compare myself to anyone else or I will get thrown off
  • I think about walking when I think no one is looking
  • Envy people standing on the sidelines
  • Finish line seems to literally pull me along
Heaven is the finishing line that should literally pull me along

Can you imagine what it will be like to see Christ face to face?
He might say something like "I never doubted; I knew you would make it!"

I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far - Philippians 1:21-26

Better than what? Better than all.

Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Together Forever
No eye has seen,
 No ear has heard
  No mind has conceived
   What God has prepared for those who love him - 1 Corinthians

Our Journey to heaven is like a race:
  • If you start too fast, you can die
  • The most important thing is finishing
  • Cannot compare myself to anyone else or I will get thrown off
  • I think about walking when I think no one is looking
  • Envy people standing on the sidelines
  • Finish line seems to literally pull me along
Heaven is the finishing line that should literally pull me along

Can you imagine what it will be like to see Christ face to face?
He might say something like "I never doubted; I knew you would make it!"

I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far - Philippians 1:21-26

Better than what? Better than all.

Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Together Forever
No eye has seen,
 No ear has heard
  No mind has conceived
   What God has prepared for those who love him - 1 Corinthians

Our Journey to heaven is like a race:
  • If you start too fast, you can die
  • The most important thing is finishing
  • Cannot compare myself to anyone else or I will get thrown off
  • I think about walking when I think no one is looking
  • Envy people standing on the sidelines
  • Finish line seems to literally pull me along
Heaven is the finishing line that should literally pull me along

Can you imagine what it will be like to see Christ face to face?
He might say something like "I never doubted; I knew you would make it!"

I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far - Philippians 1:21-26

Better than what? Better than all.

Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Together Forever
No eye has seen,
 No ear has heard
  No mind has conceived
   What God has prepared for those who love him - 1 Corinthians

Our Journey to heaven is like a race:
  • If you start too fast, you can die
  • The most important thing is finishing
  • Cannot compare myself to anyone else or I will get thrown off
  • I think about walking when I think no one is looking
  • Envy people standing on the sidelines
  • Finish line seems to literally pull me along
Heaven is the finishing line that should literally pull me along

Can you imagine what it will be like to see Christ face to face?
He might say something like "I never doubted; I knew you would make it!"

I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far - Philippians 1:21-26

Better than what? Better than all.

Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Together Forever
No eye has seen,
 No ear has heard
  No mind has conceived
   What God has prepared for those who love him - 1 Corinthians

Our Journey to heaven is like a race:
  • If you start too fast, you can die
  • The most important thing is finishing
  • Cannot compare myself to anyone else or I will get thrown off
  • I think about walking when I think no one is looking
  • Envy people standing on the sidelines
  • Finish line seems to literally pull me along
Heaven is the finishing line that should literally pull me along

Can you imagine what it will be like to see Christ face to face?
He might say something like "I never doubted; I knew you would make it!"

I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far - Philippians 1:21-26

Better than what? Better than all.

Falling in Love with God - Jesus: Together Forever
No eye has seen,
 No ear has heard
  No mind has conceived
   What God has prepared for those who love him - 1 Corinthians

Our Journey to heaven is like a race:
  • If you start too fast, you can die
  • The most important thing is finishing
  • Cannot compare myself to anyone else or I will get thrown off
  • I think about walking when I think no one is looking
  • Envy people standing on the sidelines
  • Finish line seems to literally pull me along
Heaven is the finishing line that should literally pull me along

Can you imagine what it will be like to see Christ face to face?
He might say something like "I never doubted; I knew you would make it!"

I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far - Philippians 1:21-26

Better than what? Better than all.

Falling in Love with God - Suffering
Not content to wait for heaven - groaning is never spiritual

Expectations on earth - we are frequently disappointed
Only expectations that exceed our imagination - are satisfied from heaven

Revelation 1:9 - John was a champion in the suffering; patient endurance that are ours in Jesus

We can lose our love for God because we are surprised by suffering


Only place for comfort in our relationship with god

Paul was in conflict between the Earth and being in heaven - 1 Philippians 1:23-25

Since we have not reached the resting place (heaven for us), we don't 'as we see fit' - Deuteronomy 12:8-10

Falling in Love with God - Suffering
Not content to wait for heaven - groaning is never spiritual

Expectations on earth - we are frequently disappointed
Only expectations that exceed our imagination - are satisfied from heaven

Revelation 1:9 - John was a champion in the suffering; patient endurance that are ours in Jesus

We can lose our love for God because we are surprised by suffering


Only place for comfort in our relationship with god

Paul was in conflict between the Earth and being in heaven - 1 Philippians 1:23-25

Since we have not reached the resting place (heaven for us), we don't 'as we see fit' - Deuteronomy 12:8-10

Falling in Love with God - Suffering
Not content to wait for heaven - groaning is never spiritual

Expectations on earth - we are frequently disappointed
Only expectations that exceed our imagination - are satisfied from heaven

Revelation 1:9 - John was a champion in the suffering; patient endurance that are ours in Jesus

We can lose our love for God because we are surprised by suffering


Only place for comfort in our relationship with god

Paul was in conflict between the Earth and being in heaven - 1 Philippians 1:23-25

Since we have not reached the resting place (heaven for us), we don't 'as we see fit' - Deuteronomy 12:8-10

Power of Spiritual Thinking - Money - Root of All Evil?, part 2
There are spiritual challenges for both those who have money and those who don't

God promises to give us what we need, but not what we may want

1 Timothy - need for contentment with the basic of life

Examine:
  • How much have we accumulated?
  • Why have we accumulated it?
  • How much are we using?
  • How are we using it?
  • How attached are we to it?
Colossians 3:23 - work for the Lord
Seeking advancement or seeking to please God?

How content are you with what you have? - Philippians 4:12

1 Timothy 6:9-12 - not just avoid but flee from the love of money
 - Some use people, and love money
 - God uses money and loves people

Who is master in your life? God OR Money - Luke 16:13

Avoid the extremes of loving it and envying those who have more than you

Use money to the fullest extend to serve him and bless others

Power of Spiritual Thinking - Don't cry over split milk

Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead - Philippians 3:12-14

Much of our challenge is in accepting failures without feeling like failures

Peter and Judas were both betrayers
Peter was forgiven and Judas would have too if he had not killed himself

Mistakes are part of the growing process

  1. Performance mind-set - try to minimize our failures (no risks)
  2. Terminal thinkers - avoid calling them mistakes

Gospel allows us to start over and over again
Failure to achieve dreams is one our greatest challenges from our past

Shock > denial > anger > depression, apathy, or peace (grace of God)

BIG PICTURE - being right with God, growing in our relationship with him, and helping others



Power of Spiritual Thinking - Don't cry over split milk

Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead - Philippians 3:12-14

Much of our challenge is in accepting failures without feeling like failures

Peter and Judas were both betrayers
Peter was forgiven and Judas would have too if he had not killed himself

Mistakes are part of the growing process

  1. Performance mind-set - try to minimize our failures (no risks)
  2. Terminal thinkers - avoid calling them mistakes

Gospel allows us to start over and over again
Failure to achieve dreams is one our greatest challenges from our past

Shock > denial > anger > depression, apathy, or peace (grace of God)

BIG PICTURE - being right with God, growing in our relationship with him, and helping others



Power of Spiritual Thinking - Don't cry over split milk

Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead - Philippians 3:12-14

Much of our challenge is in accepting failures without feeling like failures

Peter and Judas were both betrayers
Peter was forgiven and Judas would have too if he had not killed himself

Mistakes are part of the growing process

  1. Performance mind-set - try to minimize our failures (no risks)
  2. Terminal thinkers - avoid calling them mistakes

Gospel allows us to start over and over again
Failure to achieve dreams is one our greatest challenges from our past

Shock > denial > anger > depression, apathy, or peace (grace of God)

BIG PICTURE - being right with God, growing in our relationship with him, and helping others



Power of Spiritual Thinking - Disappointed
Mathew 23:37 - Talks about how Jerusalem killed the prophets and those God has sent to them

Disappointed people are not happy people

Disappointed = depressed or discouraged by the failures of one's hopes
Disappointment in others exposes a basic selfishness; by definition is rather self-focused

Most assume that God often views us with a disappointed heart
Luke 19:41-42 (parallel verse to Matthew 23:37) - If you only had known on this day what would bring you peace

Are you often disappointed in yourself or others?
Humility is needed - Selfishness and pride is the opposite
  • Disappointed often? Selfish often!
  • Frustrated at others often? Selfish often!
  • Angry when others have things against you? Selfish once more!
Look not to your own interest, but the interest of others - Philippians 2:3-4

Disappointment is un-Godlike; Concern is the godly quality which comes from self-denial and agape love

Power of Spiritual Thinking - Disappointed
Mathew 23:37 - Talks about how Jerusalem killed the prophets and those God has sent to them

Disappointed people are not happy people

Disappointed = depressed or discouraged by the failures of one's hopes
Disappointment in others exposes a basic selfishness; by definition is rather self-focused

Most assume that God often views us with a disappointed heart
Luke 19:41-42 (parallel verse to Matthew 23:37) - If you only had known on this day what would bring you peace

Are you often disappointed in yourself or others?
Humility is needed - Selfishness and pride is the opposite
  • Disappointed often? Selfish often!
  • Frustrated at others often? Selfish often!
  • Angry when others have things against you? Selfish once more!
Look not to your own interest, but the interest of others - Philippians 2:3-4

Disappointment is un-Godlike; Concern is the godly quality which comes from self-denial and agape love

Purpose Driven Life - Restoring Broken Fellowship
Relationships are always worth restoring
God has given us the ministry of restoring
God gave everything (his son) for restoring relationships
Does not mean avoiding conflict or appeasement
 
Talk to God before talking to the person
 
God may change your heart or their hear - James 4:1-2
Tell God your frustrations
Most conflict is rooted in unmet needs; some needs can only be meet by God
 
Always take the initiative
 
God expects you to make the first move - Matthew 5:23-24
Abandon your offering at the alter and go make things right first
Acting quickly reduces the spiritual damage
Bitterness is only hurting yourself
 
Sympathize with their feelings
 
Use your ears more than your mouth - Philippians 2:4
Focus on feelings and not facts
Start with sympathy, not solutions
 
Confess your part of the conflict
 
Ask "Am I the problem?" - Matthew 7:5
The way you handle a conflict creates a bigger hurt
 
Attack the problem, not the person
 
How you say it is important as what you say
Cold War - country decided on weapons that should never be used
 
Cooperate as much as possible - Romans 12:18
 
Sometime it cost our pride, self-centerness
 
Emphasize reconciliation, not resolution
 
Reconciliation focuses on the relationship
Takes a lot of effort to restore a relationship

Purpose Driven Life - Created to Become Like Christ
You are created to become like Christ

Jesus' mission is restore the full image that we have lost
God's ultimate goal for your life on earth in not comfort but character development
If we forget this, you will become frustrated by your circumstances

You exist for God's purpose, not vice versa

Only the Holy Spirit has the power to make the changes God wants to make in our lives - Philippians 2:13

We must cooperate with the Holy Spirit's work

Obedience unlocks God's power
God waits for you to act first
Make every effort - Luke 13:24; Romans 14:19; Ephesians 4:3; 2 Timothy 2:15

Ephesians 4:22-24 - Responsibilities in belonging like Christ:
  • Choose to let go of old ways
  • Must change the way we think
  • Must put on the "character of Christ by developing new, godly habits

God uses his Word, people, and circumstances to mold us
  • Truth we need to grow
  • Support when we need guidance or when we fail
  • Environment we need to practice Christ-likeness
In many religions, the mature isolate themselves, not those who are being like Christ

Being like Christ is a long, slow process of growth - You are a work in progress

Purpose Driven Life - How We Grow

God wants you to grow up - some grow older but never grow up (Ephesians 4:14-15)

Nothing shapes your life than the commitments you make
Many are afraid to commit to anything and drift through life

God's part and your part

Our part is to: Continue to work out our salvation with fear and trembling - Philippians 2:12-13

Our role = "work out" salvation (grow - in a body workout we have our body but we make it better)
God's role = "work in" us

Changing your autopilot

Becareful what you think; your life is shaped by your thoughts - Proverbs 4:23
Changing what you think, changes you

Going on a diet, exercising does not work if you do not change your thinking - "I am going on a diet"

The way you think determines the way you feel - which influences how you act - Ephesians 4:23

Babies by nature are completely selfish
Many never grow beyond that kind of thinking

It is not the amount of biblical information and doctrine you know
Deeds must be constant with our creeds / Beliefs backed up with Christlike behavior



Purpose Driven Life - How We Grow

God wants you to grow up - some grow older but never grow up (Ephesians 4:14-15)

Nothing shapes your life than the commitments you make
Many are afraid to commit to anything and drift through life

God's part and your part

Our part is to: Continue to work out our salvation with fear and trembling - Philippians 2:12-13

Our role = "work out" salvation (grow - in a body workout we have our body but we make it better)
God's role = "work in" us

Changing your autopilot

Becareful what you think; your life is shaped by your thoughts - Proverbs 4:23
Changing what you think, changes you

Going on a diet, exercising does not work if you do not change your thinking - "I am going on a diet"

The way you think determines the way you feel - which influences how you act - Ephesians 4:23

Babies by nature are completely selfish
Many never grow beyond that kind of thinking

It is not the amount of biblical information and doctrine you know
Deeds must be constant with our creeds / Beliefs backed up with Christlike behavior



Purpose Driven Life - Thinking Like a Servant (part 1)

Service starts in the mind

Servants think more about others than about themselves

Not thinking less of ourselves, thinking of ourselves less
Forget yourselves; lend a helping a hand - Philippians 2:4
This is what it means to "lose your life"
Jesus emptied himself; taking the form of a servant - Philippians 2:7

Self-denial is the core of servanthood
Unfair situation; use the occasion to practice the servant life - Matthew 5:41

Servants think like stewards, not owners

Remember the God owns it all
No servant can serve two masters - Money not "should not", "can not"
If you have been trusted with the world's weath, than you can be trusted with true riches - Luke 16:11

 



Purpose Driven Life - Thinking Like a Servant (part 1)

Service starts in the mind

Servants think more about others than about themselves

Not thinking less of ourselves, thinking of ourselves less
Forget yourselves; lend a helping a hand - Philippians 2:4
This is what it means to "lose your life"
Jesus emptied himself; taking the form of a servant - Philippians 2:7

Self-denial is the core of servanthood
Unfair situation; use the occasion to practice the servant life - Matthew 5:41

Servants think like stewards, not owners

Remember the God owns it all
No servant can serve two masters - Money not "should not", "can not"
If you have been trusted with the world's weath, than you can be trusted with true riches - Luke 16:11

 



Purpose Driven Life - Balancing Your Life (part 1)
God 5 purposes for your life:
  1. Love God with all your heart
  2. Love your neighbor as yourself
  3. Go and make disciples
  4. Baptize them
  5. Teach them to do all things
We tend to overemphasize the purposes we feel most passionate about
Churches do the same thing

Habits to stay on track:

Talk it through in a spiritual group

Helps you to internalize information
Helps with accountability - Iron sharpens iron - Proverbs 27:17
Helps you put in the practice what you learned - Philippians 4:9
Helps encourage each other - 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Give yourself a regular checkup

Test yourself -  2 Corinthians 13:5
Take a look at the way you are living - Lamentations 3:40

Purpose Driven Life - Lifes 5 Greatest Questions
  1. What will be the center of my life? - Center our lives should be God - 2 Chronicles 14:4
  2. What will be the character of my life? - Keep a firm grasp of your character; keep at it - 1 Timothy 4:16
  3. What will be the contribution of my life? - Meet the needs of God's people produces gratitude - 2 Corinthians 9:12
  4. What will be the communication of my life? - Bring honor to the good news - Philippians 1:27
  5. What will be the community of my life? - Christ loved the church and gave his life for it - Ephesians 5:25


30 Days at the Cross - Heights of Humility

World often assumes humily with being quite, soft, weak, a loner, apathetic and without convictions

Does this sound like Jesus to you?
Jesus humbled himself and became obedient to death - even death on the cross - Philippians 2:8
Death on the cross was considered a curse - Deuteronomy 21:22-23
He allowed himself to be cursed
He put his trust in him who judges justly - 1 Peter 2:23

With humility, you give up yourself, but in the process you find God and yourself

Questions and answers about humility:

  1. Where does God dwell? with the humble and concrite - Isaiah 57:15
  2. Who does God esteem? he who is humble, concrite, and trembles at his word - Isaiah 66:2-3
  3. Who receives God's grace? not the proud but the humble - James 4:6
  4. Who does God lift up? those who humble themselves under God's mighty hand - 1 Peter 5:5-6

 



30 Days at the Cross - If the King is a Servant
What Jesus rightly deserved and what he received while here on earth were quite different
Jesus didn't resent or resist his role
He had a desire and compassion to help others

Greatest of humility and suffering for him to subject himself to the cruelest of deaths - Philippians 2:8

People who have a major impact are the ones who serve
Nothing moves the human heart more than someone who puts the needs of another above his own need
It is a rare and precious expression of love

Jesus has called you and me to be like him and take on his attitude toward serving others

Jesus' serving was not limited to his friends (but also his enemies)
His people will do the simple acts of service for the "least" among us

Easier to serve someone on a schedule; more difficult if unexpected or interrupting my schedule

30 Days at the Cross - Consumed with Reconciliation
Bible makes it clear: God is consumed with reconciliation
At the cross: it reconciles us to God, then reconciles us to each other

There must be humility on both sides:

God humility (did not need to go the human level but he did for our sake) - Philippians 2:5-8
  • Made himself nothing
  • Took the very nature of a servant
  • Was made in human likeness
  • In the appearance of a man
  • Obedient to death
Man problems with humility
  • Consumed with finiding fault with God
  • Reject God rather than questioning ourselves
  • Thinks he could do a better ob
Only with humility from both God (yes) and man (sometimes) can reconciliation occur.

Do you want to resolve a conflict in a relationship?
Do it Gods way:
  1. Start with a fresh look at the cross
  2. Remind yourself of the humility shown by Christ
  3. Want reconciliation more than anything
  4. Confess your sin first


30 Days at the Cross - Consumed with Reconciliation
Bible makes it clear: God is consumed with reconciliation
At the cross: it reconciles us to God, then reconciles us to each other

There must be humility on both sides:

God humility (did not need to go the human level but he did for our sake) - Philippians 2:5-8
  • Made himself nothing
  • Took the very nature of a servant
  • Was made in human likeness
  • In the appearance of a man
  • Obedient to death
Man problems with humility
  • Consumed with finiding fault with God
  • Reject God rather than questioning ourselves
  • Thinks he could do a better ob
Only with humility from both God (yes) and man (sometimes) can reconciliation occur.

Do you want to resolve a conflict in a relationship?
Do it Gods way:
  1. Start with a fresh look at the cross
  2. Remind yourself of the humility shown by Christ
  3. Want reconciliation more than anything
  4. Confess your sin first


30 Days at the Cross - Consumed with Reconciliation
Bible makes it clear: God is consumed with reconciliation
At the cross: it reconciles us to God, then reconciles us to each other

There must be humility on both sides:

God humility (did not need to go the human level but he did for our sake) - Philippians 2:5-8
  • Made himself nothing
  • Took the very nature of a servant
  • Was made in human likeness
  • In the appearance of a man
  • Obedient to death
Man problems with humility
  • Consumed with finiding fault with God
  • Reject God rather than questioning ourselves
  • Thinks he could do a better ob
Only with humility from both God (yes) and man (sometimes) can reconciliation occur.

Do you want to resolve a conflict in a relationship?
Do it Gods way:
  1. Start with a fresh look at the cross
  2. Remind yourself of the humility shown by Christ
  3. Want reconciliation more than anything
  4. Confess your sin first


30 Days at the Cross - Consumed with Reconciliation
Bible makes it clear: God is consumed with reconciliation
At the cross: it reconciles us to God, then reconciles us to each other

There must be humility on both sides:

God humility (did not need to go the human level but he did for our sake) - Philippians 2:5-8
  • Made himself nothing
  • Took the very nature of a servant
  • Was made in human likeness
  • In the appearance of a man
  • Obedient to death
Man problems with humility
  • Consumed with finiding fault with God
  • Reject God rather than questioning ourselves
  • Thinks he could do a better ob
Only with humility from both God (yes) and man (sometimes) can reconciliation occur.

Do you want to resolve a conflict in a relationship?
Do it Gods way:
  1. Start with a fresh look at the cross
  2. Remind yourself of the humility shown by Christ
  3. Want reconciliation more than anything
  4. Confess your sin first


Teach Us To Pray - God Enjoys Talking to Us

To truely know him, we must absorb his Word
We must enjoy his talking to us

God's Word was written with one purpose in mind - to communicate God's love:

  • He promised to carry our burdens - Matthew 11:28
  • We will have all we need - 2 Corinthians 9:8
  • He will give us more than we can ask or imagine - Ephesians 3:20
  • He will meet all our our needs - Philippians 4:19
  • All disciples have angels to server them - Hebrews 1:14


Teach Us To Pray - Surrender
Not what I will, but what you will - Mark 14:35-36

Surrender means to put oneself and one's future totally into the hands of God
Surrender is unconditional and total - nothing is held back
Worst scenario possible and is still willing to pay that price

What can we learn from Jesus is this most difficult night of surrender?
  1. He included people in his prayer struggle
  2. He was totally honest with all of his feelings before God and other men - limiting Satan's power - John 3:19-21
  3. Jesus stated his preferences to God very clearly
  4. Prayed until his surrender was complete - surrender is not completed without this kind of prayer - Philippians 4:6-7


Teach Us To Pray - Surrender
Not what I will, but what you will - Mark 14:35-36

Surrender means to put oneself and one's future totally into the hands of God
Surrender is unconditional and total - nothing is held back
Worst scenario possible and is still willing to pay that price

What can we learn from Jesus is this most difficult night of surrender?
  1. He included people in his prayer struggle
  2. He was totally honest with all of his feelings before God and other men - limiting Satan's power - John 3:19-21
  3. Jesus stated his preferences to God very clearly
  4. Prayed until his surrender was complete - surrender is not completed without this kind of prayer - Philippians 4:6-7


Teach Us To Pray - The Church of Jesus
Disciples must have a deep commitment to pray for the needs of the church:
  • Church "universal" - all congregations
  • Church "militant" - war against evil
  • Church "triumphant" - the mission God has given us
Praying is hard work. Let's get practical:
  1. Pray with variety, creativity, and perseverance - Ephesians 6
  2. Pray for all the saints - Philippians 1:4
  3. Pray for upcoming meetings
  4. Intercede for world leaders - 1 Timothy 2:1-2
  5. Tour your city - Get a map; drive around pray for the different parts
  6. Incorporate biblical themes
  7. Tour the world
  8. Pray for your elders
  9. Pray for the church's work among the needy of your city
  10. Pray for the special ministries within your church
  11. Pray for new church plantings


Teach Us To Pray - Power for our weakness
Weakness include:
  • Physical sickness - Philippians 2:26
  • Weak faith - Romans 14:1-2
  • Weak conscience - 1 Corinthians 8:11-12
If you are not aware of your weaknesses, then God can not make you strong

Prayer is simply the key that unlocks the door to God's free reign in our lives
He reigns whether we like it or not, but he will not take away our free will - we have to surrender it
Getting rid of weakness is not the point - it to humbly submit yourself to God, depend on his power, and to rely on his strength

Teach Us To Pray - Enemies and Opposition

Whoever the enemies may be, the words of Jesus are still the same: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you - Matthew 5:44

It our enemies who afford us the opportunity to glory God by shining like stars - Philippians 2:15
This behavior is described in the Bible as "perfect" - Matthew 5:48
Only someone who loves God earnestly and has an eternal perspective on life is able to surrender

Must forgive and love our enemies to be permitted to be sons of God - Matthew 5:44

When praying for our enemies, we should focus on:

  1. Their need for forgiveness - Luke 23:34
  2. The power of God to change them - Acts 4:24-28
  3. Our need to continue to preach boldly - Acts 4:29

 



Man of Prayer - YHWH-jireh
YHWH-jireh means "the Lord will provide"

Our God is a provider
God saw Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son, God provided a ram

"My God will meet all your needs - Philippians 4:19

He is a good provider
Every good and perfect gift comes from His hand - James 1:17
No good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly - Psalms 84:11

Raising Awesome Kids - First Things First (part 1)
Unless the Lord builds the house, its builder labor in vain - Psalms 127:1

We have someone or something we love most in this world

Jesus must be our first love
He must be our life, not just a part of it

Been crucified with Christ and I no longer live but Christ lives in me - Galatians 2:20
To live is Christ - Philippians 1:21

This is the key to everything

Your kids must see that Jesus is a real person to you
You walk with him and love him as a brother

You can not fake it - kids can spot a fake

Raising Awesome Kids - Dreary Disobedience (part 1)

Tearful, self-pity can drive parents to guilt, rage, and frustration - this is a form of disobedience
This is an attempt by the child to break down the parent - we must not give in
It is a character flaw that one day will produce an unhappy, victim mentality adult

Do everything without complaining of arging - Philippians 2:14-16
This is what God expects from us and we should expect it from our children

 



Raising Awesome Kids - Dreary Disobedience (part 1)

Tearful, self-pity can drive parents to guilt, rage, and frustration - this is a form of disobedience
This is an attempt by the child to break down the parent - we must not give in
It is a character flaw that one day will produce an unhappy, victim mentality adult

Do everything without complaining of arging - Philippians 2:14-16
This is what God expects from us and we should expect it from our children

 



Raising Awesome Kids - Dreary Disobedience (part 1)

Tearful, self-pity can drive parents to guilt, rage, and frustration - this is a form of disobedience
This is an attempt by the child to break down the parent - we must not give in
It is a character flaw that one day will produce an unhappy, victim mentality adult

Do everything without complaining of arging - Philippians 2:14-16
This is what God expects from us and we should expect it from our children

 



Jesus with People - Humility in Action
Jesus and John the Baptizer were very different - ie one preached in the desert and one in the cities and villages

John called the people not to focus on him but the one who was coming
Jesus came to be baptized by John - Matthew 3:11
John responds - I need to be baptized by you
John submits to Jesus' submission and baptizes Jesus

Satan hated it - they kept humbling themselves before one another - the bond of unity grew tighter and tighter
This humility continued through out their lives  - John: He must become greater; I must become less - John 3:27-30
Jesus did not grasp his equality with God - Philippians 2:6

Humility kept them bonded together, even when Satan was working to divide
Pride: Keeps people from being united
Humility: Bring people together


When unity does not exist among believers: People are not willing to pay the price
Pride means too much to them

What relationship do you have that would be greatly changed if you show humility and not pride?

Jesus with People - Widows Physical Sacrifice
Physical sacrifice is central to our commitment to Jesus

Physically, priorities must be set, reexamined and set again

God will help us discern what we can give physically
God is capable of giving his strength when ours is failing

Paul learned to rely on the Lord through physical suffering - 2 Corinthians 1:3-9
God grace is sufficient

Each of us, with the help of God must live physically sacrificial lives daily - Philippians 2:12
Sacrifice is our act of worship - Romans 12:1



Promises of God - Give and it will be given to you

God is faithful. He will meet all our needs
Based on the extent to which we focus on the Father and his will - extent to which God moves in our lives

He desires to meet our every need - to the point of sacrificing his own son - Romans 8:32
Does our knowledge of him transform us?
Does it propel us forward in capturing God's heart of sacrificing for the needs of other?

In Philippi, church sacrificed financially to support Paul (only church to do so) - Philippians 4:14-18
God will meet all your needs - Philippians 4:19
Those who are giving to others and giving to God can be assured that God will give to what they need - Luke 6:38

The more we are focused on his will, the more our needs will be richly met

What must be true in our lives in order for us to claim the promise that God will meet all our needs?



Promises of God - Give and it will be given to you

God is faithful. He will meet all our needs
Based on the extent to which we focus on the Father and his will - extent to which God moves in our lives

He desires to meet our every need - to the point of sacrificing his own son - Romans 8:32
Does our knowledge of him transform us?
Does it propel us forward in capturing God's heart of sacrificing for the needs of other?

In Philippi, church sacrificed financially to support Paul (only church to do so) - Philippians 4:14-18
God will meet all your needs - Philippians 4:19
Those who are giving to others and giving to God can be assured that God will give to what they need - Luke 6:38

The more we are focused on his will, the more our needs will be richly met

What must be true in our lives in order for us to claim the promise that God will meet all our needs?



Promises of God - Give and it will be given to you

God is faithful. He will meet all our needs
Based on the extent to which we focus on the Father and his will - extent to which God moves in our lives

He desires to meet our every need - to the point of sacrificing his own son - Romans 8:32
Does our knowledge of him transform us?
Does it propel us forward in capturing God's heart of sacrificing for the needs of other?

In Philippi, church sacrificed financially to support Paul (only church to do so) - Philippians 4:14-18
God will meet all your needs - Philippians 4:19
Those who are giving to others and giving to God can be assured that God will give to what they need - Luke 6:38

The more we are focused on his will, the more our needs will be richly met

What must be true in our lives in order for us to claim the promise that God will meet all our needs?



Promises of God - Give and it will be given to you

God is faithful. He will meet all our needs
Based on the extent to which we focus on the Father and his will - extent to which God moves in our lives

He desires to meet our every need - to the point of sacrificing his own son - Romans 8:32
Does our knowledge of him transform us?
Does it propel us forward in capturing God's heart of sacrificing for the needs of other?

In Philippi, church sacrificed financially to support Paul (only church to do so) - Philippians 4:14-18
God will meet all your needs - Philippians 4:19
Those who are giving to others and giving to God can be assured that God will give to what they need - Luke 6:38

The more we are focused on his will, the more our needs will be richly met

What must be true in our lives in order for us to claim the promise that God will meet all our needs?



Promises of God - Give and it will be given to you

God is faithful. He will meet all our needs
Based on the extent to which we focus on the Father and his will - extent to which God moves in our lives

He desires to meet our every need - to the point of sacrificing his own son - Romans 8:32
Does our knowledge of him transform us?
Does it propel us forward in capturing God's heart of sacrificing for the needs of other?

In Philippi, church sacrificed financially to support Paul (only church to do so) - Philippians 4:14-18
God will meet all your needs - Philippians 4:19
Those who are giving to others and giving to God can be assured that God will give to what they need - Luke 6:38

The more we are focused on his will, the more our needs will be richly met

What must be true in our lives in order for us to claim the promise that God will meet all our needs?



Promises of God - Give and it will be given to you

God is faithful. He will meet all our needs
Based on the extent to which we focus on the Father and his will - extent to which God moves in our lives

He desires to meet our every need - to the point of sacrificing his own son - Romans 8:32
Does our knowledge of him transform us?
Does it propel us forward in capturing God's heart of sacrificing for the needs of other?

In Philippi, church sacrificed financially to support Paul (only church to do so) - Philippians 4:14-18
God will meet all your needs - Philippians 4:19
Those who are giving to others and giving to God can be assured that God will give to what they need - Luke 6:38

The more we are focused on his will, the more our needs will be richly met

What must be true in our lives in order for us to claim the promise that God will meet all our needs?



Promises of God - Hearts at Peace
God makes clear his offer of peace

Does God promise pleasing circumstances to those who trust him? No

Paul, from a prison cell, said the Philippians could "peace of God which transcends understanding" - Philippians 4:7

Peace came from trusting in God - Isaiah 26:3

Trust is essential
Must imitate childlike humility - Matthew 18:3-4

Children are generally are at peace
They do not worry about the mortgage, stock market, bills
They are content to let mom and dad tackle those issues

We have to believe that God is in charge and he knows what he is doing

Kingdom First - Only One Master

What occupies my mind?
What concerns me?
When I think of security, is my focus on God or money?

If we are eager and driven to gain more we will stray from the faith and be pierced with many griefs - 1 Timothy 6:10

Secret to being content, I can do everything through him that gives me strength - Philippians 4:12-13

Judas: example of someone trying to live with 2 masters:

  • Expressed concern for a waste of money that could have gone to the poor - John 12:4-6
  • The hold money had on Judas' heart eventually led to his betrayal of Jesus
Guards responsible for securing Jesus' tomb
Elders gave large sums of money to have them lie about the disciples stealing the body of Jesus - Matthew 28:12

What is our selling point?
Do not put our hope in wealth, which is so uncertain - 1 Timothy 6:17
Keep your lives free from the love of money - Hebrews 13:5

Kingdom First - Only One Master

What occupies my mind?
What concerns me?
When I think of security, is my focus on God or money?

If we are eager and driven to gain more we will stray from the faith and be pierced with many griefs - 1 Timothy 6:10

Secret to being content, I can do everything through him that gives me strength - Philippians 4:12-13

Judas: example of someone trying to live with 2 masters:

  • Expressed concern for a waste of money that could have gone to the poor - John 12:4-6
  • The hold money had on Judas' heart eventually led to his betrayal of Jesus
Guards responsible for securing Jesus' tomb
Elders gave large sums of money to have them lie about the disciples stealing the body of Jesus - Matthew 28:12

What is our selling point?
Do not put our hope in wealth, which is so uncertain - 1 Timothy 6:17
Keep your lives free from the love of money - Hebrews 13:5

Kingdom First - Not Kidding
His challenge to love our enemies and pray for our persecutors
His message totally defies world standards

Consider the alternative: responding like the world
We become enslaved by how other treat us

Regardless how much we love the brotherhood of believers, if we hold any bitterness or resentment - we are simply reduced to the level of the world
No matter how unjust or painful the treatment, God's grace is sufficient - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9

He expects us to have
Because he call to a life of righteousness which will produce enemies
Are we willing to go all the way and suffer for him - Philippians 1:29

He expects us to love and actively pray for the people who oppose us
How much do we persevere with people?
Do we answer back kindly when spoken to unjustly?

First the Kingdom - Building with Gold (part 1)
Known as the golden rule - Matthew 7:12

Jesus' standard for treating others was not how they treated him

He demonstrated his incredible compassion:
  • Touched the leper - Matthew 8:3
  • Healed many - Matthew 8:14-17
  • Broke social and racial barriers - John 4
  • Compassion for a woman caught in adultery - John 8:3-11
  • Noticed a woman's suffering in a crowd - Luke 8:47
  • Called little children to him - Luke 18:16
He always asked  - How would I want to be treated?

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit - Philippians 2:3-5

Jesus walked with his disciples teaching them to put others first not theology

First the Kingdom - Building with Gold (part 1)
Known as the golden rule - Matthew 7:12

Jesus' standard for treating others was not how they treated him

He demonstrated his incredible compassion:
  • Touched the leper - Matthew 8:3
  • Healed many - Matthew 8:14-17
  • Broke social and racial barriers - John 4
  • Compassion for a woman caught in adultery - John 8:3-11
  • Noticed a woman's suffering in a crowd - Luke 8:47
  • Called little children to him - Luke 18:16
He always asked  - How would I want to be treated?

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit - Philippians 2:3-5

Jesus walked with his disciples teaching them to put others first not theology

First the Kingdom - Building with Gold (part 1)
Known as the golden rule - Matthew 7:12

Jesus' standard for treating others was not how they treated him

He demonstrated his incredible compassion:
  • Touched the leper - Matthew 8:3
  • Healed many - Matthew 8:14-17
  • Broke social and racial barriers - John 4
  • Compassion for a woman caught in adultery - John 8:3-11
  • Noticed a woman's suffering in a crowd - Luke 8:47
  • Called little children to him - Luke 18:16
He always asked  - How would I want to be treated?

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit - Philippians 2:3-5

Jesus walked with his disciples teaching them to put others first not theology

One Another - Bearing With Another (part 2)
When helping each other likely not going to happen:
  • When relationships are superficial - deeper and consistent basis
  • When we feel our own burdens are quite enough - not hard for anyone to feel this
When will bearing with each other happen?

1. When relationships are real, open, and deep
When we know people, walk with them, feel with them, and pray with them - we will know when they are leaving the path
We need to care for them

2. When we feel our burdens, but live with a servant heart
Should look to the interest of others - Philippians 2:4-5

3. When we understand that we are responsible for one another and accept it

One Another - Bearing With Another (part 2)
When helping each other likely not going to happen:
  • When relationships are superficial - deeper and consistent basis
  • When we feel our own burdens are quite enough - not hard for anyone to feel this
When will bearing with each other happen?

1. When relationships are real, open, and deep
When we know people, walk with them, feel with them, and pray with them - we will know when they are leaving the path
We need to care for them

2. When we feel our burdens, but live with a servant heart
Should look to the interest of others - Philippians 2:4-5

3. When we understand that we are responsible for one another and accept it

One Another - Reconciling with One Another (part 4)

Some things that depend on us

We can always have a gracious attitude

Paul choose to focus on the result - Christ is being proclaimed - Philippians 1:15-19

We can always be humble

Consider others better than ourselves - Philippians 2:3-4
Walk worthy of the calling - with all humility and gentleness - Ephesians 4:1-2

We can always be positive - Philippians 2:14-15

We can always listen - James 1:19-20

We can always control our anger - James 1:20

Some things are our of control when to comes to reconciliation but they are many things within our control to build a relationship



One Another - Reconciling with One Another (part 4)

Some things that depend on us

We can always have a gracious attitude

Paul choose to focus on the result - Christ is being proclaimed - Philippians 1:15-19

We can always be humble

Consider others better than ourselves - Philippians 2:3-4
Walk worthy of the calling - with all humility and gentleness - Ephesians 4:1-2

We can always be positive - Philippians 2:14-15

We can always listen - James 1:19-20

We can always control our anger - James 1:20

Some things are our of control when to comes to reconciliation but they are many things within our control to build a relationship



One Another - Reconciling with One Another (part 4)

Some things that depend on us

We can always have a gracious attitude

Paul choose to focus on the result - Christ is being proclaimed - Philippians 1:15-19

We can always be humble

Consider others better than ourselves - Philippians 2:3-4
Walk worthy of the calling - with all humility and gentleness - Ephesians 4:1-2

We can always be positive - Philippians 2:14-15

We can always listen - James 1:19-20

We can always control our anger - James 1:20

Some things are our of control when to comes to reconciliation but they are many things within our control to build a relationship



One Another - Reconciling with One Another (part 4)

Some things that depend on us

We can always have a gracious attitude

Paul choose to focus on the result - Christ is being proclaimed - Philippians 1:15-19

We can always be humble

Consider others better than ourselves - Philippians 2:3-4
Walk worthy of the calling - with all humility and gentleness - Ephesians 4:1-2

We can always be positive - Philippians 2:14-15

We can always listen - James 1:19-20

We can always control our anger - James 1:20

Some things are our of control when to comes to reconciliation but they are many things within our control to build a relationship



One Another - Reconciling with One Another (part 4)

Some things that depend on us

We can always have a gracious attitude

Paul choose to focus on the result - Christ is being proclaimed - Philippians 1:15-19

We can always be humble

Consider others better than ourselves - Philippians 2:3-4
Walk worthy of the calling - with all humility and gentleness - Ephesians 4:1-2

We can always be positive - Philippians 2:14-15

We can always listen - James 1:19-20

We can always control our anger - James 1:20

Some things are our of control when to comes to reconciliation but they are many things within our control to build a relationship



One Another - Reconciling with One Another (part 4)

Some things that depend on us

We can always have a gracious attitude

Paul choose to focus on the result - Christ is being proclaimed - Philippians 1:15-19

We can always be humble

Consider others better than ourselves - Philippians 2:3-4
Walk worthy of the calling - with all humility and gentleness - Ephesians 4:1-2

We can always be positive - Philippians 2:14-15

We can always listen - James 1:19-20

We can always control our anger - James 1:20

Some things are our of control when to comes to reconciliation but they are many things within our control to build a relationship



One Another - Reconciling with One Another (part 4)

Some things that depend on us

We can always have a gracious attitude

Paul choose to focus on the result - Christ is being proclaimed - Philippians 1:15-19

We can always be humble

Consider others better than ourselves - Philippians 2:3-4
Walk worthy of the calling - with all humility and gentleness - Ephesians 4:1-2

We can always be positive - Philippians 2:14-15

We can always listen - James 1:19-20

We can always control our anger - James 1:20

Some things are our of control when to comes to reconciliation but they are many things within our control to build a relationship



One Another - Reconciling with One Another (part 4)

Some things that depend on us

We can always have a gracious attitude

Paul choose to focus on the result - Christ is being proclaimed - Philippians 1:15-19

We can always be humble

Consider others better than ourselves - Philippians 2:3-4
Walk worthy of the calling - with all humility and gentleness - Ephesians 4:1-2

We can always be positive - Philippians 2:14-15

We can always listen - James 1:19-20

We can always control our anger - James 1:20

Some things are our of control when to comes to reconciliation but they are many things within our control to build a relationship



One Another - Reconciling with One Another (part 4)

Some things that depend on us

We can always have a gracious attitude

Paul choose to focus on the result - Christ is being proclaimed - Philippians 1:15-19

We can always be humble

Consider others better than ourselves - Philippians 2:3-4
Walk worthy of the calling - with all humility and gentleness - Ephesians 4:1-2

We can always be positive - Philippians 2:14-15

We can always listen - James 1:19-20

We can always control our anger - James 1:20

Some things are our of control when to comes to reconciliation but they are many things within our control to build a relationship



To Live is Christ - Partners in the Gospel
Philippians 1:16

Philippi was named for Philip of Macedon
It was a roman colony - not actually a place one would expect the message of Jesus to take hold
A roman jail is where you would expect Paul and Silas to be

Paul made a career of being with other and influencing their lives - reduced to visits from the guards
Through many hard times he had learned to overcome the most challenging of circumstances

Five lines into the letter, Paul remembers his relationship with God and other disciples:
  • First converts - Lydia and her household
  • The jailer and his house hold
  • God using an earthquake to bring unlikely people into the kingdom of God - Acts 16:22
Christianity is a personal experience but not a private one

Only when we have been in the trenches with others will we have relationships that are full of life

To Live is Christ - In My Heart
Philippians 1:7-8

During Paul's 3 days of blindness:
  • His Pharisaic crust was broken
  • His independence had melted
  • He recognized and braced the true Lord
One of the most touching paragraphs written by Paul in the NT
Instead of seeing cell walls - he saw the Philippian disciples needs, struggles, and victories
Paul had to have come to know them all
He did not just start the church there, he began a family

He was committed to all of them - he was a true shepherd:
  • He called his own sheep by name - John 10:3
  • He laid down his life for them - John 10:11
  • He knew his sheep - John 10:14
Paul turned from persecutor to nurturer
We too can long for people with the affection of Christ but we must have people in our hearts

To Live is Christ - In My Heart
Philippians 1:7-8

During Paul's 3 days of blindness:
  • His Pharisaic crust was broken
  • His independence had melted
  • He recognized and braced the true Lord
One of the most touching paragraphs written by Paul in the NT
Instead of seeing cell walls - he saw the Philippian disciples needs, struggles, and victories
Paul had to have come to know them all
He did not just start the church there, he began a family

He was committed to all of them - he was a true shepherd:
  • He called his own sheep by name - John 10:3
  • He laid down his life for them - John 10:11
  • He knew his sheep - John 10:14
Paul turned from persecutor to nurturer
We too can long for people with the affection of Christ but we must have people in our hearts

To Live is Christ - From Trials to Triumph

A successful life is not life from difficulty, trial, or tragedy - Philippians 1:12-14
While Paul was imprisoned, he learned how to live

He saw God the same - no matter what happened in his life

In an earlier letter he saw illness as an opportunity bring the gospel to the them - Galatians 4:13

He saw imprisonment for a chance to convert Romans
There became disciples is Caesar's household - Philippians 4:22
Something "not good" can be turned into the complete opposite when in God's larger pattern

Paul not giving up deepen their convictions - he emboldened them to share the message

Whatever happens in life can serve to advance the gospel when we are living by faith



To Live is Christ - From Trials to Triumph

A successful life is not life from difficulty, trial, or tragedy - Philippians 1:12-14
While Paul was imprisoned, he learned how to live

He saw God the same - no matter what happened in his life

In an earlier letter he saw illness as an opportunity bring the gospel to the them - Galatians 4:13

He saw imprisonment for a chance to convert Romans
There became disciples is Caesar's household - Philippians 4:22
Something "not good" can be turned into the complete opposite when in God's larger pattern

Paul not giving up deepen their convictions - he emboldened them to share the message

Whatever happens in life can serve to advance the gospel when we are living by faith



To Live is Christ - From Trials to Triumph

A successful life is not life from difficulty, trial, or tragedy - Philippians 1:12-14
While Paul was imprisoned, he learned how to live

He saw God the same - no matter what happened in his life

In an earlier letter he saw illness as an opportunity bring the gospel to the them - Galatians 4:13

He saw imprisonment for a chance to convert Romans
There became disciples is Caesar's household - Philippians 4:22
Something "not good" can be turned into the complete opposite when in God's larger pattern

Paul not giving up deepen their convictions - he emboldened them to share the message

Whatever happens in life can serve to advance the gospel when we are living by faith



To Live is Christ - From Trials to Triumph

A successful life is not life from difficulty, trial, or tragedy - Philippians 1:12-14
While Paul was imprisoned, he learned how to live

He saw God the same - no matter what happened in his life

In an earlier letter he saw illness as an opportunity bring the gospel to the them - Galatians 4:13

He saw imprisonment for a chance to convert Romans
There became disciples is Caesar's household - Philippians 4:22
Something "not good" can be turned into the complete opposite when in God's larger pattern

Paul not giving up deepen their convictions - he emboldened them to share the message

Whatever happens in life can serve to advance the gospel when we are living by faith



To Live is Christ - Christ is Preached
Some men in Philippi conveted the importance of Paul's position, but not the painful consequences - Philippians 1:15-18

In the hearts of each of us, when distracted and self-reliant, is a demon of selfish ambition

Paul was secure in his position before God - a saved servant of Jesus Christ
He knew that these men would either become convicted of their sin or God would deal with them

Bottom line: Christ was being preached

More than anything he wanted people to come to know the Jesus he came to know

To Live is Christ - Christ is Preached
Some men in Philippi conveted the importance of Paul's position, but not the painful consequences - Philippians 1:15-18

In the hearts of each of us, when distracted and self-reliant, is a demon of selfish ambition

Paul was secure in his position before God - a saved servant of Jesus Christ
He knew that these men would either become convicted of their sin or God would deal with them

Bottom line: Christ was being preached

More than anything he wanted people to come to know the Jesus he came to know

To Live is Christ - Christ is Preached
Some men in Philippi conveted the importance of Paul's position, but not the painful consequences - Philippians 1:15-18

In the hearts of each of us, when distracted and self-reliant, is a demon of selfish ambition

Paul was secure in his position before God - a saved servant of Jesus Christ
He knew that these men would either become convicted of their sin or God would deal with them

Bottom line: Christ was being preached

More than anything he wanted people to come to know the Jesus he came to know

To Live is Christ - Christ is Preached
Some men in Philippi conveted the importance of Paul's position, but not the painful consequences - Philippians 1:15-18

In the hearts of each of us, when distracted and self-reliant, is a demon of selfish ambition

Paul was secure in his position before God - a saved servant of Jesus Christ
He knew that these men would either become convicted of their sin or God would deal with them

Bottom line: Christ was being preached

More than anything he wanted people to come to know the Jesus he came to know

To Live is Christ - Progress and Joy
Paul was torn - Philippians 1:22-26
He rejoiced to be able to encourage the Philippian disciples
Death brought him face to face he loved

He realized that he had more laps to run and did not want to coast - but to run with all his might

Paul has no desire simply to remain with the disciples - want to continue with them
Greek for "Continue" = to wait beside a person to be ready to help and help all the time

For Paul to live was Christ and to give himself to others for their spiritual progress and deep joy

Whatever the cost, he would be there for them:
  • Their growth - he would pay the cost
  • Patient with someone who was weak - he would pay the cost
  • Someone taking advantage of his humility - he would pay the cost
  • Was through sticky, uncomfortable issues - he would pay the cost


To Live is Christ - Progress and Joy
Paul was torn - Philippians 1:22-26
He rejoiced to be able to encourage the Philippian disciples
Death brought him face to face he loved

He realized that he had more laps to run and did not want to coast - but to run with all his might

Paul has no desire simply to remain with the disciples - want to continue with them
Greek for "Continue" = to wait beside a person to be ready to help and help all the time

For Paul to live was Christ and to give himself to others for their spiritual progress and deep joy

Whatever the cost, he would be there for them:
  • Their growth - he would pay the cost
  • Patient with someone who was weak - he would pay the cost
  • Someone taking advantage of his humility - he would pay the cost
  • Was through sticky, uncomfortable issues - he would pay the cost


To Live is Christ - Progress and Joy
Paul was torn - Philippians 1:22-26
He rejoiced to be able to encourage the Philippian disciples
Death brought him face to face he loved

He realized that he had more laps to run and did not want to coast - but to run with all his might

Paul has no desire simply to remain with the disciples - want to continue with them
Greek for "Continue" = to wait beside a person to be ready to help and help all the time

For Paul to live was Christ and to give himself to others for their spiritual progress and deep joy

Whatever the cost, he would be there for them:
  • Their growth - he would pay the cost
  • Patient with someone who was weak - he would pay the cost
  • Someone taking advantage of his humility - he would pay the cost
  • Was through sticky, uncomfortable issues - he would pay the cost


To Live is Christ - Progress and Joy
Paul was torn - Philippians 1:22-26
He rejoiced to be able to encourage the Philippian disciples
Death brought him face to face he loved

He realized that he had more laps to run and did not want to coast - but to run with all his might

Paul has no desire simply to remain with the disciples - want to continue with them
Greek for "Continue" = to wait beside a person to be ready to help and help all the time

For Paul to live was Christ and to give himself to others for their spiritual progress and deep joy

Whatever the cost, he would be there for them:
  • Their growth - he would pay the cost
  • Patient with someone who was weak - he would pay the cost
  • Someone taking advantage of his humility - he would pay the cost
  • Was through sticky, uncomfortable issues - he would pay the cost


To Live is Christ - Progress and Joy
Paul was torn - Philippians 1:22-26
He rejoiced to be able to encourage the Philippian disciples
Death brought him face to face he loved

He realized that he had more laps to run and did not want to coast - but to run with all his might

Paul has no desire simply to remain with the disciples - want to continue with them
Greek for "Continue" = to wait beside a person to be ready to help and help all the time

For Paul to live was Christ and to give himself to others for their spiritual progress and deep joy

Whatever the cost, he would be there for them:
  • Their growth - he would pay the cost
  • Patient with someone who was weak - he would pay the cost
  • Someone taking advantage of his humility - he would pay the cost
  • Was through sticky, uncomfortable issues - he would pay the cost


To Live is Christ - Having the Same Love

Paul wanted to remind the Philippians of the blessings of their relationship with Jesus - Philippians 2:1-4
He called them to "be like-minded, having the same love" for each other

By this all men will know we are Jesus' disciple by our love - John 13:35

"Sharing in the common life" ws his heartfelt vision for them

He applealed to them to be one to initiate this kind of love
To love like Jesus is to love first
We love because he first loved us - 1 John 4:19
God did not wait for us to initiate and get an attitude because we didn't

It is not natural to love this way
Jesus does not ask of us something he did not do or something we cannot do

Will we trust the message he lived and taught?
Will we be the kind of friend to others that he has been to us?



To Live is Christ - Having the Same Love

Paul wanted to remind the Philippians of the blessings of their relationship with Jesus - Philippians 2:1-4
He called them to "be like-minded, having the same love" for each other

By this all men will know we are Jesus' disciple by our love - John 13:35

"Sharing in the common life" ws his heartfelt vision for them

He applealed to them to be one to initiate this kind of love
To love like Jesus is to love first
We love because he first loved us - 1 John 4:19
God did not wait for us to initiate and get an attitude because we didn't

It is not natural to love this way
Jesus does not ask of us something he did not do or something we cannot do

Will we trust the message he lived and taught?
Will we be the kind of friend to others that he has been to us?



To Live is Christ - Having the Same Love

Paul wanted to remind the Philippians of the blessings of their relationship with Jesus - Philippians 2:1-4
He called them to "be like-minded, having the same love" for each other

By this all men will know we are Jesus' disciple by our love - John 13:35

"Sharing in the common life" ws his heartfelt vision for them

He applealed to them to be one to initiate this kind of love
To love like Jesus is to love first
We love because he first loved us - 1 John 4:19
God did not wait for us to initiate and get an attitude because we didn't

It is not natural to love this way
Jesus does not ask of us something he did not do or something we cannot do

Will we trust the message he lived and taught?
Will we be the kind of friend to others that he has been to us?



To Live is Christ - Having the Same Love

Paul wanted to remind the Philippians of the blessings of their relationship with Jesus - Philippians 2:1-4
He called them to "be like-minded, having the same love" for each other

By this all men will know we are Jesus' disciple by our love - John 13:35

"Sharing in the common life" ws his heartfelt vision for them

He applealed to them to be one to initiate this kind of love
To love like Jesus is to love first
We love because he first loved us - 1 John 4:19
God did not wait for us to initiate and get an attitude because we didn't

It is not natural to love this way
Jesus does not ask of us something he did not do or something we cannot do

Will we trust the message he lived and taught?
Will we be the kind of friend to others that he has been to us?



To Live is Christ - Just Like Christ

In the midst of the discussion about unity, Paul continues by talking about having the mind of Jesus - Philippians 2:5-8

The only way to have unity is to be like Jesus

We were called to follow in his steps - 1 Peter 2:21

Jesus willingly because a servant
Greek literally says, "he emptied himself"'

  • He poured out his diviniy for us
  • He gave up his rights
  • Jesus was not just playing a role, he was showing us the depths of this heart

Jesus came not to be served but to serve - Matthew 20:28

 



To Live is Christ - Just Like Christ

In the midst of the discussion about unity, Paul continues by talking about having the mind of Jesus - Philippians 2:5-8

The only way to have unity is to be like Jesus

We were called to follow in his steps - 1 Peter 2:21

Jesus willingly because a servant
Greek literally says, "he emptied himself"'

  • He poured out his diviniy for us
  • He gave up his rights
  • Jesus was not just playing a role, he was showing us the depths of this heart

Jesus came not to be served but to serve - Matthew 20:28

 



To Live is Christ - Just Like Christ

In the midst of the discussion about unity, Paul continues by talking about having the mind of Jesus - Philippians 2:5-8

The only way to have unity is to be like Jesus

We were called to follow in his steps - 1 Peter 2:21

Jesus willingly because a servant
Greek literally says, "he emptied himself"'

  • He poured out his diviniy for us
  • He gave up his rights
  • Jesus was not just playing a role, he was showing us the depths of this heart

Jesus came not to be served but to serve - Matthew 20:28

 



To Live is Christ - Just Like Christ

In the midst of the discussion about unity, Paul continues by talking about having the mind of Jesus - Philippians 2:5-8

The only way to have unity is to be like Jesus

We were called to follow in his steps - 1 Peter 2:21

Jesus willingly because a servant
Greek literally says, "he emptied himself"'

  • He poured out his diviniy for us
  • He gave up his rights
  • Jesus was not just playing a role, he was showing us the depths of this heart

Jesus came not to be served but to serve - Matthew 20:28

 



To Live is Christ - Every Tongue Confess

Jesus Christ is Lord
Everyone who lived will say these four words - Philippians 2:9-11

Whoever disowns Jesus before men, he will disown him - Matthew 10:32-33

No one comes to the Father except through Jesus - John 14:6

Give up for God = Gain
Lose for God = FInd
Bow before God now = stand

Bow when:

  • You naturally want to be selfish
  • You want your needs meet
  • You doubt his love

Each disciple must decide that he or she lives among other "for their sake" - 1 Thessalonians 1:5

 



To Live is Christ - Every Tongue Confess

Jesus Christ is Lord
Everyone who lived will say these four words - Philippians 2:9-11

Whoever disowns Jesus before men, he will disown him - Matthew 10:32-33

No one comes to the Father except through Jesus - John 14:6

Give up for God = Gain
Lose for God = FInd
Bow before God now = stand

Bow when:

  • You naturally want to be selfish
  • You want your needs meet
  • You doubt his love

Each disciple must decide that he or she lives among other "for their sake" - 1 Thessalonians 1:5

 



To Live is Christ - Every Tongue Confess

Jesus Christ is Lord
Everyone who lived will say these four words - Philippians 2:9-11

Whoever disowns Jesus before men, he will disown him - Matthew 10:32-33

No one comes to the Father except through Jesus - John 14:6

Give up for God = Gain
Lose for God = FInd
Bow before God now = stand

Bow when:

  • You naturally want to be selfish
  • You want your needs meet
  • You doubt his love

Each disciple must decide that he or she lives among other "for their sake" - 1 Thessalonians 1:5

 



To Live is Christ - Fellow Worker and Soldier
Epaphroditus was committed to Paul in the most difficult of circumstances - Philippians 2:25-30
Having a brother to encourage you and not be ashamed of you while in prision meant the world to Paul

Great friends are fellow worker - To accomplish a common goal
Great friends are fellow soldiers - a common enemy and a common plan to go make disciples

Easy to get wrapped up in our own needs
If we are selfless in our thinking and actions - do we think we will lose out in some way?
Paul was eager to send Epaphroditus - not reluctantly
Who we have been so generous?




To Live is Christ - Fellow Worker and Soldier
Epaphroditus was committed to Paul in the most difficult of circumstances - Philippians 2:25-30
Having a brother to encourage you and not be ashamed of you while in prision meant the world to Paul

Great friends are fellow worker - To accomplish a common goal
Great friends are fellow soldiers - a common enemy and a common plan to go make disciples

Easy to get wrapped up in our own needs
If we are selfless in our thinking and actions - do we think we will lose out in some way?
Paul was eager to send Epaphroditus - not reluctantly
Who we have been so generous?




To Live is Christ - Fellow Worker and Soldier
Epaphroditus was committed to Paul in the most difficult of circumstances - Philippians 2:25-30
Having a brother to encourage you and not be ashamed of you while in prision meant the world to Paul

Great friends are fellow worker - To accomplish a common goal
Great friends are fellow soldiers - a common enemy and a common plan to go make disciples

Easy to get wrapped up in our own needs
If we are selfless in our thinking and actions - do we think we will lose out in some way?
Paul was eager to send Epaphroditus - not reluctantly
Who we have been so generous?




To Live is Christ - Fellow Worker and Soldier
Epaphroditus was committed to Paul in the most difficult of circumstances - Philippians 2:25-30
Having a brother to encourage you and not be ashamed of you while in prision meant the world to Paul

Great friends are fellow worker - To accomplish a common goal
Great friends are fellow soldiers - a common enemy and a common plan to go make disciples

Easy to get wrapped up in our own needs
If we are selfless in our thinking and actions - do we think we will lose out in some way?
Paul was eager to send Epaphroditus - not reluctantly
Who we have been so generous?




To Live is Christ - Fellow Worker and Soldier
Epaphroditus was committed to Paul in the most difficult of circumstances - Philippians 2:25-30
Having a brother to encourage you and not be ashamed of you while in prision meant the world to Paul

Great friends are fellow worker - To accomplish a common goal
Great friends are fellow soldiers - a common enemy and a common plan to go make disciples

Easy to get wrapped up in our own needs
If we are selfless in our thinking and actions - do we think we will lose out in some way?
Paul was eager to send Epaphroditus - not reluctantly
Who we have been so generous?




To Live is Christ - Fellow Worker and Soldier
Epaphroditus was committed to Paul in the most difficult of circumstances - Philippians 2:25-30
Having a brother to encourage you and not be ashamed of you while in prision meant the world to Paul

Great friends are fellow worker - To accomplish a common goal
Great friends are fellow soldiers - a common enemy and a common plan to go make disciples

Easy to get wrapped up in our own needs
If we are selfless in our thinking and actions - do we think we will lose out in some way?
Paul was eager to send Epaphroditus - not reluctantly
Who we have been so generous?




To Live is Christ - No Confidence in Flesh
Paul describes people who do not appreciate what Jesus has done as dogs - Philippians 3:14

There are 2 options to approaching God:
  1. The performance model
  2. The grace model
One works; the other is a disaster

Man, in his pride, is drawn to the performance model
Paul refers to the people who acknowledge Jesus as Lord but would not let go of the performance model
These people held on to certain Jewish regulation that were made obsolete by Jesus

The grace model is revolutionary
Seems too easy to be true but too hard for our egos to accept

Grace model says:
  • There are never enough requirements we could meet
  • There are never enough rules we could keep
  • There is never enough rituals we could experience
  • Even if obedient to death, our only hope of salvation come from work from another


To Live is Christ - Profit to Loss
If anyone want to talk about 'confidence in the flesh', Paul was ready to take them on - Philippians 3:4-7
Paul used the events in his life to show just how empty all human achievements in before God

Heredity reasons (how Paul was more than others but counted them a loss)
  • He was circumcised the first day it was possible (eighth day)
  • He was an Israelite
  • He was from the tribe of Benjamin (most honored tribe of all)
  • He was a Hebrew of Hebrews - carefully passed on Hebrew language to children
Hard work reasons (how Paul was more than others but counted them a loss)
  • He was extremely zealous - Galatians 1:14
  • He vigorously opposed the church
  • He was faultless in the eyes of others
He considered it all a loss = Greek: "the thinks that were gains to me, I counted loss"
If anyone had a right to glory in the flesh, Paul did, but he clearly saw that no one has that right

To Live is Christ - Profit to Loss
If anyone want to talk about 'confidence in the flesh', Paul was ready to take them on - Philippians 3:4-7
Paul used the events in his life to show just how empty all human achievements in before God

Heredity reasons (how Paul was more than others but counted them a loss)
  • He was circumcised the first day it was possible (eighth day)
  • He was an Israelite
  • He was from the tribe of Benjamin (most honored tribe of all)
  • He was a Hebrew of Hebrews - carefully passed on Hebrew language to children
Hard work reasons (how Paul was more than others but counted them a loss)
  • He was extremely zealous - Galatians 1:14
  • He vigorously opposed the church
  • He was faultless in the eyes of others
He considered it all a loss = Greek: "the thinks that were gains to me, I counted loss"
If anyone had a right to glory in the flesh, Paul did, but he clearly saw that no one has that right

To Live is Christ - Profit to Loss
If anyone want to talk about 'confidence in the flesh', Paul was ready to take them on - Philippians 3:4-7
Paul used the events in his life to show just how empty all human achievements in before God

Heredity reasons (how Paul was more than others but counted them a loss)
  • He was circumcised the first day it was possible (eighth day)
  • He was an Israelite
  • He was from the tribe of Benjamin (most honored tribe of all)
  • He was a Hebrew of Hebrews - carefully passed on Hebrew language to children
Hard work reasons (how Paul was more than others but counted them a loss)
  • He was extremely zealous - Galatians 1:14
  • He vigorously opposed the church
  • He was faultless in the eyes of others
He considered it all a loss = Greek: "the thinks that were gains to me, I counted loss"
If anyone had a right to glory in the flesh, Paul did, but he clearly saw that no one has that right

To Live is Christ - Profit to Loss
If anyone want to talk about 'confidence in the flesh', Paul was ready to take them on - Philippians 3:4-7
Paul used the events in his life to show just how empty all human achievements in before God

Heredity reasons (how Paul was more than others but counted them a loss)
  • He was circumcised the first day it was possible (eighth day)
  • He was an Israelite
  • He was from the tribe of Benjamin (most honored tribe of all)
  • He was a Hebrew of Hebrews - carefully passed on Hebrew language to children
Hard work reasons (how Paul was more than others but counted them a loss)
  • He was extremely zealous - Galatians 1:14
  • He vigorously opposed the church
  • He was faultless in the eyes of others
He considered it all a loss = Greek: "the thinks that were gains to me, I counted loss"
If anyone had a right to glory in the flesh, Paul did, but he clearly saw that no one has that right

To Live is Christ - Considered Rubbish
Not only did Paul give up his religious past and performance, he gladly counted everything else a loss too
He would give up any claim of such things so he could gain justification by grace

He considered them rubbish  - Philippians 3:8-9
skubala = human waste or dung (KJV)
He was saying the same thing as Isaiah - all righteousness acts are like filthy rags - Isaiah 64:6

The good we do is not rubbish but it is if those works are seen as the source and trusted in
Our obedience, which is imperfect, does not make us right with God
Christ's righteousness saves by faith

The message of the cross calls us to sacrifice everything to Christ, who sacrificed everything for us

Without his sacrifice, our sacrifice would be worthless to God and to man


To Live is Christ - Considered Rubbish
Not only did Paul give up his religious past and performance, he gladly counted everything else a loss too
He would give up any claim of such things so he could gain justification by grace

He considered them rubbish  - Philippians 3:8-9
skubala = human waste or dung (KJV)
He was saying the same thing as Isaiah - all righteousness acts are like filthy rags - Isaiah 64:6

The good we do is not rubbish but it is if those works are seen as the source and trusted in
Our obedience, which is imperfect, does not make us right with God
Christ's righteousness saves by faith

The message of the cross calls us to sacrifice everything to Christ, who sacrificed everything for us

Without his sacrifice, our sacrifice would be worthless to God and to man


To Live is Christ - Know Christ
Paul wanted to know Christ - Philippians 3:10-11

Did he not know him yet?
  • Three days of fasting and prayer? - Acts 9:9
  • After 3 years of personal training? - Galatians 1:11-24
  • After a visit to the 3 heaven? - 2 Corinthians 12:1-6
Geek verb ginoskein - close to intimacy of marriage

Paul knew about Jesus
He was will aware that simply doing the right thing did not give him intimacy

Do we really know Christ?
To become like him in his death is become like him in life:
  • Give when you are tired
  • Pray when you do not want to
  • Stand your ground against emotions and thoughts
  • Overcome fear and to love in practical, unselfish way
To live like this is to know Christ
The spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you - Romans 8:11

To Live is Christ - Know Christ
Paul wanted to know Christ - Philippians 3:10-11

Did he not know him yet?
  • Three days of fasting and prayer? - Acts 9:9
  • After 3 years of personal training? - Galatians 1:11-24
  • After a visit to the 3 heaven? - 2 Corinthians 12:1-6
Geek verb ginoskein - close to intimacy of marriage

Paul knew about Jesus
He was will aware that simply doing the right thing did not give him intimacy

Do we really know Christ?
To become like him in his death is become like him in life:
  • Give when you are tired
  • Pray when you do not want to
  • Stand your ground against emotions and thoughts
  • Overcome fear and to love in practical, unselfish way
To live like this is to know Christ
The spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you - Romans 8:11

To Live is Christ - Pressing On

Although is righteousness that is not our own becomes laziness, we show we have the grace of God - Philippians 3:12-16

Despite all that Paul went through and has done - he pressed on
Greek word, dicoko = used in both hunting and foot racing

There is certainly a time to remember what we have done - 2 Thessalonians 2:5
But there is also a time to forget

Paul did not cling to the fact that he planted a lot of churches
He purposely "forgot", so he would not see himself as arriving

Paul was looking forward to the next thing God had in store for him
All who are mature, should think this way

The way to take it higher is to hold on to what you have already grasped and then reach for more



To Live is Christ - Pressing On

Although is righteousness that is not our own becomes laziness, we show we have the grace of God - Philippians 3:12-16

Despite all that Paul went through and has done - he pressed on
Greek word, dicoko = used in both hunting and foot racing

There is certainly a time to remember what we have done - 2 Thessalonians 2:5
But there is also a time to forget

Paul did not cling to the fact that he planted a lot of churches
He purposely "forgot", so he would not see himself as arriving

Paul was looking forward to the next thing God had in store for him
All who are mature, should think this way

The way to take it higher is to hold on to what you have already grasped and then reach for more



To Live is Christ - Pressing On

Although is righteousness that is not our own becomes laziness, we show we have the grace of God - Philippians 3:12-16

Despite all that Paul went through and has done - he pressed on
Greek word, dicoko = used in both hunting and foot racing

There is certainly a time to remember what we have done - 2 Thessalonians 2:5
But there is also a time to forget

Paul did not cling to the fact that he planted a lot of churches
He purposely "forgot", so he would not see himself as arriving

Paul was looking forward to the next thing God had in store for him
All who are mature, should think this way

The way to take it higher is to hold on to what you have already grasped and then reach for more



To Live is Christ - Pressing On

Although is righteousness that is not our own becomes laziness, we show we have the grace of God - Philippians 3:12-16

Despite all that Paul went through and has done - he pressed on
Greek word, dicoko = used in both hunting and foot racing

There is certainly a time to remember what we have done - 2 Thessalonians 2:5
But there is also a time to forget

Paul did not cling to the fact that he planted a lot of churches
He purposely "forgot", so he would not see himself as arriving

Paul was looking forward to the next thing God had in store for him
All who are mature, should think this way

The way to take it higher is to hold on to what you have already grasped and then reach for more



To Live is Christ - Pressing On

Although is righteousness that is not our own becomes laziness, we show we have the grace of God - Philippians 3:12-16

Despite all that Paul went through and has done - he pressed on
Greek word, dicoko = used in both hunting and foot racing

There is certainly a time to remember what we have done - 2 Thessalonians 2:5
But there is also a time to forget

Paul did not cling to the fact that he planted a lot of churches
He purposely "forgot", so he would not see himself as arriving

Paul was looking forward to the next thing God had in store for him
All who are mature, should think this way

The way to take it higher is to hold on to what you have already grasped and then reach for more



To Live is Christ - Enemies of the Cross
The acceptance of Jesus leads to joy and not to be naive - Philippians 3:17-21
Be thankful but still have our eyes wide open

The cross stands as a constant reminder of the battle between good and evil
Jesus did not just hang out at the cross - HE DIED there because of his enemies
And the war goes on

To act as though we do could do enough to earn salvation - undermines Jesus' sacrifice
To act as though grace is a license for sin - undermines the purpose of the cross - Romans 6:17

Enemies of the cross = people with minds on earthly things

Philippians had a unique blessing of having Roman citizenship outside of Rome
Our real home country is heaven and our loyalty is to the King of Kings

To Live is Christ - Enemies of the Cross
The acceptance of Jesus leads to joy and not to be naive - Philippians 3:17-21
Be thankful but still have our eyes wide open

The cross stands as a constant reminder of the battle between good and evil
Jesus did not just hang out at the cross - HE DIED there because of his enemies
And the war goes on

To act as though we do could do enough to earn salvation - undermines Jesus' sacrifice
To act as though grace is a license for sin - undermines the purpose of the cross - Romans 6:17

Enemies of the cross = people with minds on earthly things

Philippians had a unique blessing of having Roman citizenship outside of Rome
Our real home country is heaven and our loyalty is to the King of Kings

To Live is Christ - Enemies of the Cross
The acceptance of Jesus leads to joy and not to be naive - Philippians 3:17-21
Be thankful but still have our eyes wide open

The cross stands as a constant reminder of the battle between good and evil
Jesus did not just hang out at the cross - HE DIED there because of his enemies
And the war goes on

To act as though we do could do enough to earn salvation - undermines Jesus' sacrifice
To act as though grace is a license for sin - undermines the purpose of the cross - Romans 6:17

Enemies of the cross = people with minds on earthly things

Philippians had a unique blessing of having Roman citizenship outside of Rome
Our real home country is heaven and our loyalty is to the King of Kings

To Live is Christ - Enemies of the Cross
The acceptance of Jesus leads to joy and not to be naive - Philippians 3:17-21
Be thankful but still have our eyes wide open

The cross stands as a constant reminder of the battle between good and evil
Jesus did not just hang out at the cross - HE DIED there because of his enemies
And the war goes on

To act as though we do could do enough to earn salvation - undermines Jesus' sacrifice
To act as though grace is a license for sin - undermines the purpose of the cross - Romans 6:17

Enemies of the cross = people with minds on earthly things

Philippians had a unique blessing of having Roman citizenship outside of Rome
Our real home country is heaven and our loyalty is to the King of Kings

To Live is Christ - Enemies of the Cross
The acceptance of Jesus leads to joy and not to be naive - Philippians 3:17-21
Be thankful but still have our eyes wide open

The cross stands as a constant reminder of the battle between good and evil
Jesus did not just hang out at the cross - HE DIED there because of his enemies
And the war goes on

To act as though we do could do enough to earn salvation - undermines Jesus' sacrifice
To act as though grace is a license for sin - undermines the purpose of the cross - Romans 6:17

Enemies of the cross = people with minds on earthly things

Philippians had a unique blessing of having Roman citizenship outside of Rome
Our real home country is heaven and our loyalty is to the King of Kings

To Live is Christ - Joy and Crown
Paul: My joy and crown is you standing firm in the Lord - Philippians 4:1
For the Greeks, the crown was a symbol of victory or a token of honor

Paul's crown was changed lives
The legacy was lasting and the reward was eternal
Paul to Corinthians: Result of the ministry not written on tablets but on human hearts - 2 Corinthians 3:2-3

If other people's spiritual growth is not our concern, it will never be our joy
If others are not our joy in this life, they will never be our crown after this life

What brought Jesus joy, brought Paul joy
Where do we get our joy in life?

Self-centeredness is the greatest roadblock of joy
We can not be concerned about the things of God if our own things get in the way

The Philippians were Paul's concern,  his focus, his joy and his crown

To Live is Christ - Rejoice Always

It would be one thing to hear "rejoice always" from someone living with plenty but quite another from someone in a challenging situation - Philippians 4:4-5

There is something about being "in the Lord"
If someone is "in the Lord", there is always something bigger than our trials

Paul also had a deep conviction that whatever is one: The Lord Is Near
This is how men and women of God can be joyful and gentle in the most stressful times

God is monitoring their pain not allow more than we can bear and giving his strength
The Lord is near to all who call on him - Psalms 145:18
He is near in every situation we encounter

He is calling on them and us to rejoice always and to have a great attitude

 



To Live is Christ - Rejoice Always

It would be one thing to hear "rejoice always" from someone living with plenty but quite another from someone in a challenging situation - Philippians 4:4-5

There is something about being "in the Lord"
If someone is "in the Lord", there is always something bigger than our trials

Paul also had a deep conviction that whatever is one: The Lord Is Near
This is how men and women of God can be joyful and gentle in the most stressful times

God is monitoring their pain not allow more than we can bear and giving his strength
The Lord is near to all who call on him - Psalms 145:18
He is near in every situation we encounter

He is calling on them and us to rejoice always and to have a great attitude

 



To Live is Christ - Anxious About Nothing

Paul urges them to be anxious and worried about nothing and to pray about everything because God is in control - Philippians 4:6-7

Peace never comes without surrender
Surrender never comes without a decision to trust

Something instead of dealing with our emotions, we try an avoidance pattern
Adam and Eve hid from God and themselves

We must be in touch with happens to others and ourselves
It is why we must consistently and unashamedly pray about all aspects of our lives
It is not just for some - it is normal experience - just people deciding to trust God in every situation

Guard (a garrison of angel are available to help) our hearts - Satan wants us to trust ourselves and to doubt our God
Our own thoughts are not always the truth

How challenging to turn everything over to God. Yet, how foolish not to!

 



To Live is Christ - Anxious About Nothing

Paul urges them to be anxious and worried about nothing and to pray about everything because God is in control - Philippians 4:6-7

Peace never comes without surrender
Surrender never comes without a decision to trust

Something instead of dealing with our emotions, we try an avoidance pattern
Adam and Eve hid from God and themselves

We must be in touch with happens to others and ourselves
It is why we must consistently and unashamedly pray about all aspects of our lives
It is not just for some - it is normal experience - just people deciding to trust God in every situation

Guard (a garrison of angel are available to help) our hearts - Satan wants us to trust ourselves and to doubt our God
Our own thoughts are not always the truth

How challenging to turn everything over to God. Yet, how foolish not to!

 



To Live is Christ - Mind Change
Whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable - think of such things - Philippians 4:8-9

It is all about the focus
Focus on the mess or you can change your mind and focus on:
  • Who God is
  • What God can do
  • The changes he can make
  • The victory he will most certainly achieve
Paul is not hopeful on what direction the world is going
Jesus saw the increase in wickedness - Matthew 24:12
While pessimistic about the world's chances, he was totally optimistic about the future with God

You will have trouble in this world but Jesus has overcome the world - John 16:33


To Live is Christ - Mind Change
Whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable - think of such things - Philippians 4:8-9

It is all about the focus
Focus on the mess or you can change your mind and focus on:
  • Who God is
  • What God can do
  • The changes he can make
  • The victory he will most certainly achieve
Paul is not hopeful on what direction the world is going
Jesus saw the increase in wickedness - Matthew 24:12
While pessimistic about the world's chances, he was totally optimistic about the future with God

You will have trouble in this world but Jesus has overcome the world - John 16:33


To Live is Christ - Learned to be Content
The secret of being content in any situations is to remember - I can do everything through him who gives me strength - Philippians 4:10-13

Content = Greek word autarkeia = self-sufficiency or not needing a thing

Secret he learned was not because he choose not to care

He learned it by:
  • Listening to Christ everyday
  • Holding on to his faith in the fiery trails
  • Slowly and painfully
Paul did not raise from baptism knowing this, he came out of the waters ready to learn it
At one point - bad circumstances led him to despair of life itself - 2 Corinthians 1:8

What circumstances are in your life right now that could lead to a lack of contentment?


To Live is Christ - Learned to be Content
The secret of being content in any situations is to remember - I can do everything through him who gives me strength - Philippians 4:10-13

Content = Greek word autarkeia = self-sufficiency or not needing a thing

Secret he learned was not because he choose not to care

He learned it by:
  • Listening to Christ everyday
  • Holding on to his faith in the fiery trails
  • Slowly and painfully
Paul did not raise from baptism knowing this, he came out of the waters ready to learn it
At one point - bad circumstances led him to despair of life itself - 2 Corinthians 1:8

What circumstances are in your life right now that could lead to a lack of contentment?


To Live is Christ - Learned to be Content
The secret of being content in any situations is to remember - I can do everything through him who gives me strength - Philippians 4:10-13

Content = Greek word autarkeia = self-sufficiency or not needing a thing

Secret he learned was not because he choose not to care

He learned it by:
  • Listening to Christ everyday
  • Holding on to his faith in the fiery trails
  • Slowly and painfully
Paul did not raise from baptism knowing this, he came out of the waters ready to learn it
At one point - bad circumstances led him to despair of life itself - 2 Corinthians 1:8

What circumstances are in your life right now that could lead to a lack of contentment?


To Live is Christ - Learned to be Content
The secret of being content in any situations is to remember - I can do everything through him who gives me strength - Philippians 4:10-13

Content = Greek word autarkeia = self-sufficiency or not needing a thing

Secret he learned was not because he choose not to care

He learned it by:
  • Listening to Christ everyday
  • Holding on to his faith in the fiery trails
  • Slowly and painfully
Paul did not raise from baptism knowing this, he came out of the waters ready to learn it
At one point - bad circumstances led him to despair of life itself - 2 Corinthians 1:8

What circumstances are in your life right now that could lead to a lack of contentment?


To Live is Christ - God will meet your needs
Paul uses financial terms to express spiritual principles - Philippians 4:16-20
He is eager to "credit their account" for their concern for his needs
Their gift was more than a full payment for the ways he pour out his life for them

When we give to meet the needs of others, God will amply supply our needs
Sometimes we are afraid our needs won't be meet
We must remember that God is faithful
He is totally reliable

The issue is not his bounty or resourcefulness but our faith

To Live is Christ - God will meet your needs
Paul uses financial terms to express spiritual principles - Philippians 4:16-20
He is eager to "credit their account" for their concern for his needs
Their gift was more than a full payment for the ways he pour out his life for them

When we give to meet the needs of others, God will amply supply our needs
Sometimes we are afraid our needs won't be meet
We must remember that God is faithful
He is totally reliable

The issue is not his bounty or resourcefulness but our faith

To Live is Christ - God will meet your needs
Paul uses financial terms to express spiritual principles - Philippians 4:16-20
He is eager to "credit their account" for their concern for his needs
Their gift was more than a full payment for the ways he pour out his life for them

When we give to meet the needs of others, God will amply supply our needs
Sometimes we are afraid our needs won't be meet
We must remember that God is faithful
He is totally reliable

The issue is not his bounty or resourcefulness but our faith

To Live is Christ - God will meet your needs
Paul uses financial terms to express spiritual principles - Philippians 4:16-20
He is eager to "credit their account" for their concern for his needs
Their gift was more than a full payment for the ways he pour out his life for them

When we give to meet the needs of others, God will amply supply our needs
Sometimes we are afraid our needs won't be meet
We must remember that God is faithful
He is totally reliable

The issue is not his bounty or resourcefulness but our faith

To Live is Christ - God will meet your needs
Paul uses financial terms to express spiritual principles - Philippians 4:16-20
He is eager to "credit their account" for their concern for his needs
Their gift was more than a full payment for the ways he pour out his life for them

When we give to meet the needs of others, God will amply supply our needs
Sometimes we are afraid our needs won't be meet
We must remember that God is faithful
He is totally reliable

The issue is not his bounty or resourcefulness but our faith

Stumbling Block or Stepping Stone (part 2)

Preached by Maurice Hooks

John 13:34-35 - How quick am I to sacrifice for my brother and sister?

Romans 13:8 - Being  a stepping stone means you make the decsion to love people

Have the attitude of Christ - ...Philippians 2:1-7

Build others up - Ephesians 4:29-31

Strive to make others great - John 3:27-30

Challenges for the week:

  1. Make your spouce/roomate great without them knowing
  2. Make your kids day, lift them up without seeing that did anything
  3. Help someone not close to you feel special

 



Stumbling Block or Stepping Stone (part 2)

Preached by Maurice Hooks

John 13:34-35 - How quick am I to sacrifice for my brother and sister?

Romans 13:8 - Being  a stepping stone means you make the decsion to love people

Have the attitude of Christ - ...Philippians 2:1-7

Build others up - Ephesians 4:29-31

Strive to make others great - John 3:27-30

Challenges for the week:

  1. Make your spouce/roomate great without them knowing
  2. Make your kids day, lift them up without seeing that did anything
  3. Help someone not close to you feel special

 



Stumbling Block or Stepping Stone (part 2)

Preached by Maurice Hooks

John 13:34-35 - How quick am I to sacrifice for my brother and sister?

Romans 13:8 - Being  a stepping stone means you make the decsion to love people

Have the attitude of Christ - ...Philippians 2:1-7

Build others up - Ephesians 4:29-31

Strive to make others great - John 3:27-30

Challenges for the week:

  1. Make your spouce/roomate great without them knowing
  2. Make your kids day, lift them up without seeing that did anything
  3. Help someone not close to you feel special

 



Stumbling Block or Stepping Stone (part 2)

Preached by Maurice Hooks

John 13:34-35 - How quick am I to sacrifice for my brother and sister?

Romans 13:8 - Being  a stepping stone means you make the decsion to love people

Have the attitude of Christ - ...Philippians 2:1-7

Build others up - Ephesians 4:29-31

Strive to make others great - John 3:27-30

Challenges for the week:

  1. Make your spouce/roomate great without them knowing
  2. Make your kids day, lift them up without seeing that did anything
  3. Help someone not close to you feel special

 



Stumbling Block or Stepping Stone (part 2)

Preached by Maurice Hooks

John 13:34-35 - How quick am I to sacrifice for my brother and sister?

Romans 13:8 - Being  a stepping stone means you make the decsion to love people

Have the attitude of Christ - ...Philippians 2:1-7

Build others up - Ephesians 4:29-31

Strive to make others great - John 3:27-30

Challenges for the week:

  1. Make your spouce/roomate great without them knowing
  2. Make your kids day, lift them up without seeing that did anything
  3. Help someone not close to you feel special

 



Stumbling Block or Stepping Stone (part 2)

Preached by Maurice Hooks

John 13:34-35 - How quick am I to sacrifice for my brother and sister?

Romans 13:8 - Being  a stepping stone means you make the decsion to love people

Have the attitude of Christ - ...Philippians 2:1-7

Build others up - Ephesians 4:29-31

Strive to make others great - John 3:27-30

Challenges for the week:

  1. Make your spouce/roomate great without them knowing
  2. Make your kids day, lift them up without seeing that did anything
  3. Help someone not close to you feel special

 



Stumbling Block or Stepping Stone (part 2)

Preached by Maurice Hooks

John 13:34-35 - How quick am I to sacrifice for my brother and sister?

Romans 13:8 - Being  a stepping stone means you make the decsion to love people

Have the attitude of Christ - ...Philippians 2:1-7

Build others up - Ephesians 4:29-31

Strive to make others great - John 3:27-30

Challenges for the week:

  1. Make your spouce/roomate great without them knowing
  2. Make your kids day, lift them up without seeing that did anything
  3. Help someone not close to you feel special

 



Heart of Friendship (part 2)

Friendship in Christ

Galatians 3:26-29

  • We are all in Christ
  • There is no different: race, martial status, money you make, area you live in

Friendship like Christ

John 13:34-35 - You must love one another like Christ (even when you do not want to)

Matthew 26:50 - First word Jesus said to Judas as he was betraying him was "Friend, ..."

Revelation 3:19 - Jesus corrected those he loved (We must correct those we love)

Friendship for Christ

Ephesians 5:21

  • Our motivation for submitting to each other - reverence for Christ
  • How can we tolerate others? our reverence for Christ

Friendship through Christ

Philippians 4:13 - We can do anything with our friend, Jesus Christ



Desire's Journey - Letting Go (part 2)
Paul learned the secret of being content - Philippians 4:12
Many Christians assume he no longer experienced the thirst of his soul
Earlier Paul said he had not obtained his soul's desire nor already made perfect (complete)
He was straining toward what was ahead - Philippians 3:12-14

Contentment is not freedom from desire but freedom of desire
It is no longer being ruled by your desires

We have 3 options:
  1. To be alive and thirsty
  2. To be dead
  3. To be addicted
Most of the world lives in addiction
Most of the church has chosen deadness

Christians are called to live the life of holy longing but we don't like to stay there

To live in thirst is to live with an ache
Every addiction comes from the attempt to get rid of the ache
Merely trying sets us on an unending chase that leads us farther and farther from home

Desire's Journey - Letting Go (part 2)
Paul learned the secret of being content - Philippians 4:12
Many Christians assume he no longer experienced the thirst of his soul
Earlier Paul said he had not obtained his soul's desire nor already made perfect (complete)
He was straining toward what was ahead - Philippians 3:12-14

Contentment is not freedom from desire but freedom of desire
It is no longer being ruled by your desires

We have 3 options:
  1. To be alive and thirsty
  2. To be dead
  3. To be addicted
Most of the world lives in addiction
Most of the church has chosen deadness

Christians are called to live the life of holy longing but we don't like to stay there

To live in thirst is to live with an ache
Every addiction comes from the attempt to get rid of the ache
Merely trying sets us on an unending chase that leads us farther and farther from home

Desire's Journey - Letting Go (part 2)
Paul learned the secret of being content - Philippians 4:12
Many Christians assume he no longer experienced the thirst of his soul
Earlier Paul said he had not obtained his soul's desire nor already made perfect (complete)
He was straining toward what was ahead - Philippians 3:12-14

Contentment is not freedom from desire but freedom of desire
It is no longer being ruled by your desires

We have 3 options:
  1. To be alive and thirsty
  2. To be dead
  3. To be addicted
Most of the world lives in addiction
Most of the church has chosen deadness

Christians are called to live the life of holy longing but we don't like to stay there

To live in thirst is to live with an ache
Every addiction comes from the attempt to get rid of the ache
Merely trying sets us on an unending chase that leads us farther and farther from home

Desire's Journey - Letting Go (part 2)
Paul learned the secret of being content - Philippians 4:12
Many Christians assume he no longer experienced the thirst of his soul
Earlier Paul said he had not obtained his soul's desire nor already made perfect (complete)
He was straining toward what was ahead - Philippians 3:12-14

Contentment is not freedom from desire but freedom of desire
It is no longer being ruled by your desires

We have 3 options:
  1. To be alive and thirsty
  2. To be dead
  3. To be addicted
Most of the world lives in addiction
Most of the church has chosen deadness

Christians are called to live the life of holy longing but we don't like to stay there

To live in thirst is to live with an ache
Every addiction comes from the attempt to get rid of the ache
Merely trying sets us on an unending chase that leads us farther and farther from home

Waking Dead - Glory (part 1)
Our destiny is to come fully alive
To explain sin, some have gone to the point of saying "I am just a sinner, saved by grace" or "there sure isn't anything good in me"
But this is unbibical

They point to: "For I know that nothing good lives in me" - Romans 7:18
Notice he says " in my flesh" - there is a difference between the flesh (old heart) and the true you

Yes, we battle sin and crucify the flesh but we choose to live from the new heart
That sinful nature you battle is not who you are

"it is no longer I myself who do it"  X 2 - Romans 7:17-18; 20, 22
Paul opens the letter with "Paul, an apostle" not as a sinner

You should shine like stars - Philippians 2:15-16
Let your light shine before men - Matthew 5:16

Shame says - "I am nothing to look at. I am not capable of goodness"
Humility say - "I bear a glory for sure, but it is a reflected glory"

Waking Dead - Glory (part 1)
Our destiny is to come fully alive
To explain sin, some have gone to the point of saying "I am just a sinner, saved by grace" or "there sure isn't anything good in me"
But this is unbibical

They point to: "For I know that nothing good lives in me" - Romans 7:18
Notice he says " in my flesh" - there is a difference between the flesh (old heart) and the true you

Yes, we battle sin and crucify the flesh but we choose to live from the new heart
That sinful nature you battle is not who you are

"it is no longer I myself who do it"  X 2 - Romans 7:17-18; 20, 22
Paul opens the letter with "Paul, an apostle" not as a sinner

You should shine like stars - Philippians 2:15-16
Let your light shine before men - Matthew 5:16

Shame says - "I am nothing to look at. I am not capable of goodness"
Humility say - "I bear a glory for sure, but it is a reflected glory"

Followup - Being Discipled: Imitation & Indignation
Imitation

Hebrews 13:7; Philippians 4:9 - Imitate your leaders
  • Purpose
  • Faith - reliance on God
  • Love - warmth and encouragement
  • Endurance - even-temperedness and stability, keeping head in all situations
Indignation

Sin is what keeps us from being a great disciple
  • Pride - Proverbs 26:12 - “I can make it on my own”
    • No you can’t! - James 4:6 - God opposes the proud
  • Selfishness - Philippians 2:1-8 - Jesus made himself nothing


Followup - Being Discipled: Imitation & Indignation
Imitation

Hebrews 13:7; Philippians 4:9 - Imitate your leaders
  • Purpose
  • Faith - reliance on God
  • Love - warmth and encouragement
  • Endurance - even-temperedness and stability, keeping head in all situations
Indignation

Sin is what keeps us from being a great disciple
  • Pride - Proverbs 26:12 - “I can make it on my own”
    • No you can’t! - James 4:6 - God opposes the proud
  • Selfishness - Philippians 2:1-8 - Jesus made himself nothing


Followup - Being Discipled: Imitation & Indignation
Imitation

Hebrews 13:7; Philippians 4:9 - Imitate your leaders
  • Purpose
  • Faith - reliance on God
  • Love - warmth and encouragement
  • Endurance - even-temperedness and stability, keeping head in all situations
Indignation

Sin is what keeps us from being a great disciple
  • Pride - Proverbs 26:12 - “I can make it on my own”
    • No you can’t! - James 4:6 - God opposes the proud
  • Selfishness - Philippians 2:1-8 - Jesus made himself nothing


Followup - Being Discipled: Imitation & Indignation
Imitation

Hebrews 13:7; Philippians 4:9 - Imitate your leaders
  • Purpose
  • Faith - reliance on God
  • Love - warmth and encouragement
  • Endurance - even-temperedness and stability, keeping head in all situations
Indignation

Sin is what keeps us from being a great disciple
  • Pride - Proverbs 26:12 - “I can make it on my own”
    • No you can’t! - James 4:6 - God opposes the proud
  • Selfishness - Philippians 2:1-8 - Jesus made himself nothing


Followup - Being Discipled: Imitation & Indignation
Imitation

Hebrews 13:7; Philippians 4:9 - Imitate your leaders
  • Purpose
  • Faith - reliance on God
  • Love - warmth and encouragement
  • Endurance - even-temperedness and stability, keeping head in all situations
Indignation

Sin is what keeps us from being a great disciple
  • Pride - Proverbs 26:12 - “I can make it on my own”
    • No you can’t! - James 4:6 - God opposes the proud
  • Selfishness - Philippians 2:1-8 - Jesus made himself nothing


Followup - Being Discipled: Imitation & Indignation
Imitation

Hebrews 13:7; Philippians 4:9 - Imitate your leaders
  • Purpose
  • Faith - reliance on God
  • Love - warmth and encouragement
  • Endurance - even-temperedness and stability, keeping head in all situations
Indignation

Sin is what keeps us from being a great disciple
  • Pride - Proverbs 26:12 - “I can make it on my own”
    • No you can’t! - James 4:6 - God opposes the proud
  • Selfishness - Philippians 2:1-8 - Jesus made himself nothing


Followup - Being Discipled: Imitation & Indignation
Imitation

Hebrews 13:7; Philippians 4:9 - Imitate your leaders
  • Purpose
  • Faith - reliance on God
  • Love - warmth and encouragement
  • Endurance - even-temperedness and stability, keeping head in all situations
Indignation

Sin is what keeps us from being a great disciple
  • Pride - Proverbs 26:12 - “I can make it on my own”
    • No you can’t! - James 4:6 - God opposes the proud
  • Selfishness - Philippians 2:1-8 - Jesus made himself nothing


Followup - Being Discipled: Imitation & Indignation
Imitation

Hebrews 13:7; Philippians 4:9 - Imitate your leaders
  • Purpose
  • Faith - reliance on God
  • Love - warmth and encouragement
  • Endurance - even-temperedness and stability, keeping head in all situations
Indignation

Sin is what keeps us from being a great disciple
  • Pride - Proverbs 26:12 - “I can make it on my own”
    • No you can’t! - James 4:6 - God opposes the proud
  • Selfishness - Philippians 2:1-8 - Jesus made himself nothing


Followup - Being Discipled: Imitation & Indignation
Imitation

Hebrews 13:7; Philippians 4:9 - Imitate your leaders
  • Purpose
  • Faith - reliance on God
  • Love - warmth and encouragement
  • Endurance - even-temperedness and stability, keeping head in all situations
Indignation

Sin is what keeps us from being a great disciple
  • Pride - Proverbs 26:12 - “I can make it on my own”
    • No you can’t! - James 4:6 - God opposes the proud
  • Selfishness - Philippians 2:1-8 - Jesus made himself nothing


Servant of God (part I)
Jesus was the ultimate servant
Mark 10:42-45
  • Jesus was the greatest because he was a servant to all
  • Why would anyone want to be a servant of all? Because Jesus was the greatest example we can understand why.
Philippians 2:1-8
  • Jesus was God yet he did not even consider his equality
  • He made himself nothing - he was king yet he was on the bottom level
  • Slaves:
    • Are 24/7/365
    • Do not get thanks
    • Do not have days off
    • Do not have a schedule of their own
    • Do not have attitudes because nothing is theirs
  • v5 - Your attitude should be the same
  • Have I taken on the nature of a servant?
  • Do I consider others better than myself?


Servant of God (part I)
Jesus was the ultimate servant
Mark 10:42-45
  • Jesus was the greatest because he was a servant to all
  • Why would anyone want to be a servant of all? Because Jesus was the greatest example we can understand why.
Philippians 2:1-8
  • Jesus was God yet he did not even consider his equality
  • He made himself nothing - he was king yet he was on the bottom level
  • Slaves:
    • Are 24/7/365
    • Do not get thanks
    • Do not have days off
    • Do not have a schedule of their own
    • Do not have attitudes because nothing is theirs
  • v5 - Your attitude should be the same
  • Have I taken on the nature of a servant?
  • Do I consider others better than myself?


Servant of God (part I)
Jesus was the ultimate servant
Mark 10:42-45
  • Jesus was the greatest because he was a servant to all
  • Why would anyone want to be a servant of all? Because Jesus was the greatest example we can understand why.
Philippians 2:1-8
  • Jesus was God yet he did not even consider his equality
  • He made himself nothing - he was king yet he was on the bottom level
  • Slaves:
    • Are 24/7/365
    • Do not get thanks
    • Do not have days off
    • Do not have a schedule of their own
    • Do not have attitudes because nothing is theirs
  • v5 - Your attitude should be the same
  • Have I taken on the nature of a servant?
  • Do I consider others better than myself?


Servant of God (part I)
Jesus was the ultimate servant
Mark 10:42-45
  • Jesus was the greatest because he was a servant to all
  • Why would anyone want to be a servant of all? Because Jesus was the greatest example we can understand why.
Philippians 2:1-8
  • Jesus was God yet he did not even consider his equality
  • He made himself nothing - he was king yet he was on the bottom level
  • Slaves:
    • Are 24/7/365
    • Do not get thanks
    • Do not have days off
    • Do not have a schedule of their own
    • Do not have attitudes because nothing is theirs
  • v5 - Your attitude should be the same
  • Have I taken on the nature of a servant?
  • Do I consider others better than myself?


Servant of God (part I)
Jesus was the ultimate servant
Mark 10:42-45
  • Jesus was the greatest because he was a servant to all
  • Why would anyone want to be a servant of all? Because Jesus was the greatest example we can understand why.
Philippians 2:1-8
  • Jesus was God yet he did not even consider his equality
  • He made himself nothing - he was king yet he was on the bottom level
  • Slaves:
    • Are 24/7/365
    • Do not get thanks
    • Do not have days off
    • Do not have a schedule of their own
    • Do not have attitudes because nothing is theirs
  • v5 - Your attitude should be the same
  • Have I taken on the nature of a servant?
  • Do I consider others better than myself?


Servant of God (part I)
Jesus was the ultimate servant
Mark 10:42-45
  • Jesus was the greatest because he was a servant to all
  • Why would anyone want to be a servant of all? Because Jesus was the greatest example we can understand why.
Philippians 2:1-8
  • Jesus was God yet he did not even consider his equality
  • He made himself nothing - he was king yet he was on the bottom level
  • Slaves:
    • Are 24/7/365
    • Do not get thanks
    • Do not have days off
    • Do not have a schedule of their own
    • Do not have attitudes because nothing is theirs
  • v5 - Your attitude should be the same
  • Have I taken on the nature of a servant?
  • Do I consider others better than myself?


Servant of God (part I)
Jesus was the ultimate servant
Mark 10:42-45
  • Jesus was the greatest because he was a servant to all
  • Why would anyone want to be a servant of all? Because Jesus was the greatest example we can understand why.
Philippians 2:1-8
  • Jesus was God yet he did not even consider his equality
  • He made himself nothing - he was king yet he was on the bottom level
  • Slaves:
    • Are 24/7/365
    • Do not get thanks
    • Do not have days off
    • Do not have a schedule of their own
    • Do not have attitudes because nothing is theirs
  • v5 - Your attitude should be the same
  • Have I taken on the nature of a servant?
  • Do I consider others better than myself?


Servant of God (part I)
Jesus was the ultimate servant
Mark 10:42-45
  • Jesus was the greatest because he was a servant to all
  • Why would anyone want to be a servant of all? Because Jesus was the greatest example we can understand why.
Philippians 2:1-8
  • Jesus was God yet he did not even consider his equality
  • He made himself nothing - he was king yet he was on the bottom level
  • Slaves:
    • Are 24/7/365
    • Do not get thanks
    • Do not have days off
    • Do not have a schedule of their own
    • Do not have attitudes because nothing is theirs
  • v5 - Your attitude should be the same
  • Have I taken on the nature of a servant?
  • Do I consider others better than myself?


NT Commands (part II)
Commands from the New Testament
  • Be alert and self controlled - 1 Thessalonians 5:6
  • Be an example in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity - 1 Timothy 4:12
  • Be anxious for nothing - Philippians 4:6
  • Be content with what you have - Hebrews 13:5
  • Be willing to associate with those in low position - Romans 12:2
  • Be joyful always - 1 Thessalonians 5:16
  • Be kind to everyone - 2 Timothy 2:24
  • Be patient with everyone - 1 Thessalonians 5:14


NT Commands (part III)
Commands found in the New Testament:
  • Be thankful - Colossians 3:15
  • Be slow to speak and anger - James 1:19-20
  • Do everything in love - 1 Corinthians 16:14
  • Do everything without complaining or arguing - Philippians 2:14-15
  • Do not be proud or conceited - Romans 12:2
  • Do not lie - Colossians 3:9-10
  • Do not take revenge - Romans 12:19
  • Do not conform to the world - Romans 12:2


NT Commands (part III)
Commands found in the New Testament:
  • Be thankful - Colossians 3:15
  • Be slow to speak and anger - James 1:19-20
  • Do everything in love - 1 Corinthians 16:14
  • Do everything without complaining or arguing - Philippians 2:14-15
  • Do not be proud or conceited - Romans 12:2
  • Do not lie - Colossians 3:9-10
  • Do not take revenge - Romans 12:19
  • Do not conform to the world - Romans 12:2


NT Commands (part VI)
Reading New Testament commands each day:
  • Honor your father and mother - Matthew 19:19
  • Let your "Yes" be a yes and your "No" be a no - James 5:12
  • Live in harmony with one another - Romans 12:16
  • Love one another - John 13:34-35
  • Must not quarrel - 2 Timothy 2:24
  • Pray continuously - 1 Thessalonians 5:17
  • Pray for persecutors - Matthew 5:44; Luke 6:28
  • Rejoice in the Lord - Philippians 3:1
  • Rejoice in your trails - James 1:2-3


One Another (part IV)
More scriptures about loving one another:
  • If you keep on biting and devouring each other you will be destroyed by each other - Galatians 5:15
  • In humility consider others better than yourselves - Philippians 2:3
  • Instruct one another - Romans 15:14
  • Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other - Galatians 5:26
  • Live in harmony with one another - 1 Peter 3:8; Romans 12:16
  • Love each other - 1 Thessalonians 4:9
  • Love each other deeply - 1 Peter 4:8
  • Love one another - 1 John 3:11; 1 John 3:23; 1 John 4:7; 1 John 4:11; 1 John 4:12; 2 John 5; Romans 13:8
  • Love one another deeply, from the heart - 1 Peter 3:8


Mind of Christ - Intro (part II)
Man’s heart must be reshaped to think and act like God’s (continued)
  1. Man does not by nature think like God
  • For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways - Isaiah 55:8-9
  • The heart is deceitful above all things - Jeremiah 17:9
  1. We must seek to obtain the mind of Christ
  • Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus - Philippians 2:5
  • But we have the mind of Christ - 1 Corinthians 2:16


Mind of Christ - Discipleship (part V)
Christ’s encounters with people teach about discipleship

Jesus loved God with an unrivaled love
  • John 14:31 - do exactly what my Father has commanded me
  • ~Matthew 26:36-46 - Did what was needed not what he at first wanted
Jesus completely and continually emptied self of self
  • Philippians 2:6-7 - Took the very nature of a servant
  • John 5:30 - Seeked to please the one who sent him
Jesus gave up everything
  • 2 Corinthians 8:9 - He became poor so we could become rich
  • Matthew 8:20 - He had no home


Mind of Christ - Discipleship (part V)
Christ’s encounters with people teach about discipleship

Jesus loved God with an unrivaled love
  • John 14:31 - do exactly what my Father has commanded me
  • ~Matthew 26:36-46 - Did what was needed not what he at first wanted
Jesus completely and continually emptied self of self
  • Philippians 2:6-7 - Took the very nature of a servant
  • John 5:30 - Seeked to please the one who sent him
Jesus gave up everything
  • 2 Corinthians 8:9 - He became poor so we could become rich
  • Matthew 8:20 - He had no home


Mind of Christ - Relationship with God (part IV)
Oneness with the Father is a definable concept in the scriptures:

It means to live in the presence of the Father
  • John 14:10 - It is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work
  • John 8:38 - I am telling you what I have seen in the Father's presence
  • Philippians 1:21 - For to me, to live is Christ
  • Colossians 1:27 - Christ in you, the hope of glory
  • Colossians 3:4 - Christ, who is your life
  • Galatians 2:20 - Christ lives in me
It means to love and obey the Father
  • 1 John 2:3-6 - We know that we have come to know him if we obey his commands.


Mind of Christ - About Self (part II)
The self-centered life (continued):

3. His worship is direct toward himself
  • Luke 18:11 - Prayer: I thank you that I am not like other men
  • Philippians 3:19 - Their god is their stomach
  • 2 Timothy 3:2 - People will be lovers of themselves
4. His pleasure is to fulfill himself
  • 2 Timothy 3:4 - Lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God
  • Proverbs 21:17 - He who loves pleasure will become poor
  • 1 Timothy 5:6 - But the widow who lives for pleasure is dead
5. His sinful nature is expressed through the gratification of self
  • Galatians 5:16 - Live by the Spirit and not our sinful desires
  • Ephesians 4:19 - Lost all sensitivity


Mind of Christ - Servant (part II)
The nature of a servant

A. He is emptied of self interest

  • Philippians 2:6-7, 19-22, 24-30
  • A servant does not consider his work of serving as a humiliation. Not ashamed of being thought as inferior. It is his place and work to serve others.
B. He voluntarily humbles himself before others.
  • Philippians 2:6-8 - Humbled himself and became obedient to death
  • Reason we often do not bless others by serving them is that we wish to address them as their superiors in grace or gifts or at least their equals.
  • Matthew 3:14 - John tried to deter his humility
  • Micah 6:8 - LORD require us to walk humbly with our God
  • 1 Peter 5:5 - Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another


Mind of Christ - Servant (part II)
The nature of a servant

A. He is emptied of self interest

  • Philippians 2:6-7, 19-22, 24-30
  • A servant does not consider his work of serving as a humiliation. Not ashamed of being thought as inferior. It is his place and work to serve others.
B. He voluntarily humbles himself before others.
  • Philippians 2:6-8 - Humbled himself and became obedient to death
  • Reason we often do not bless others by serving them is that we wish to address them as their superiors in grace or gifts or at least their equals.
  • Matthew 3:14 - John tried to deter his humility
  • Micah 6:8 - LORD require us to walk humbly with our God
  • 1 Peter 5:5 - Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another


Mind of Christ - Servant (part II)
The nature of a servant

A. He is emptied of self interest

  • Philippians 2:6-7, 19-22, 24-30
  • A servant does not consider his work of serving as a humiliation. Not ashamed of being thought as inferior. It is his place and work to serve others.
B. He voluntarily humbles himself before others.
  • Philippians 2:6-8 - Humbled himself and became obedient to death
  • Reason we often do not bless others by serving them is that we wish to address them as their superiors in grace or gifts or at least their equals.
  • Matthew 3:14 - John tried to deter his humility
  • Micah 6:8 - LORD require us to walk humbly with our God
  • 1 Peter 5:5 - Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another


Mind of Christ - Servant, Washing Feet (part II)
The washing of the disciples feet was illustrative of Christ’s life and ministry
  • Acts 10:38 - How he went around doing good and healing all
  • Mark 1:29-41, 6:30-56 - Taking care of the needs around him
  • 2 Corinthians 8:9 - Became poor so we could become rich
  • Philippians 2:6-8 - Taking on the nature of a servant
The washing of the disciples feet is illustrative of Christ’s death on the cross.
  • Isaiah 53 - He took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows
  • Matthew 20:28 - Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve
  • Galatians 1:4, 2:20 - Gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age
  • Ephesians 5:2, 25 - Gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering
No calling we have received will make us more like Christ than that of being a servant

Mind of Christ - Servant, Washing Feet (part II)
The washing of the disciples feet was illustrative of Christ’s life and ministry
  • Acts 10:38 - How he went around doing good and healing all
  • Mark 1:29-41, 6:30-56 - Taking care of the needs around him
  • 2 Corinthians 8:9 - Became poor so we could become rich
  • Philippians 2:6-8 - Taking on the nature of a servant
The washing of the disciples feet is illustrative of Christ’s death on the cross.
  • Isaiah 53 - He took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows
  • Matthew 20:28 - Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve
  • Galatians 1:4, 2:20 - Gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age
  • Ephesians 5:2, 25 - Gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering
No calling we have received will make us more like Christ than that of being a servant

Mind of Christ - Servant, Washing Feet (part II)
The washing of the disciples feet was illustrative of Christ’s life and ministry
  • Acts 10:38 - How he went around doing good and healing all
  • Mark 1:29-41, 6:30-56 - Taking care of the needs around him
  • 2 Corinthians 8:9 - Became poor so we could become rich
  • Philippians 2:6-8 - Taking on the nature of a servant
The washing of the disciples feet is illustrative of Christ’s death on the cross.
  • Isaiah 53 - He took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows
  • Matthew 20:28 - Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve
  • Galatians 1:4, 2:20 - Gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age
  • Ephesians 5:2, 25 - Gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering
No calling we have received will make us more like Christ than that of being a servant

Followup: Humility I (part I)
Humility is essential in beginning and maintaining a relationship with God. Pride, the opposite of humility, is often difficult to see in yourself and difficult to define in one’s character. It can be described as stubbornness toward God and his Word as well as others, or as independence from God and/or others.

Let’s look at a few examples of what humility is NOT.
  1. Stubborn: Pharaoh was stubborn towards the Lord’s will - Exodus 13:15
  2. Pride: It’s hard to see your own pride but others can easily - Psalms 73:6
  3. Arrogance: God hates arrogance - Proverbs 8:13
Let’s look at what examples of humility truly looks like.
  1. Proverbs 15:33 - fear of God brings about wisdom and humility
  2. Proverbs 16:3 - put God first and you will be successful
  3. Philippians 2:3 - putting others before yourself
  4. Colossians 3:12 - we are to put on humility daily
  5. 1 Peter 5:5 - respect others and clothe yourself with humility


Followup: Humility I (part II)
What humility is not:
  • Being wimpy and letting people walk over you: Jesus was no wimp - John 2:15
  • Have no opinions, become a spiritual robot: Paul pleased God not man - Galatians 1:10
What humility is:
  • Getting and applying input - Proverbs 19:20
  • Taking correction - Proverbs 12:1
Philippians 2:5-8
How was Jesus humble?
  • He was God but left heaven to become man (like you becoming an ant)
  • He gave up being a king to serve those who didn’t love or respect him.
  • He died for you and me.
Question: Is there anyone in your life difficult for you to be humble towards?
Question: What would Jesus advise you to do with that situation?

To be like Jesus is to be humble

Followup: Humility I (part II)
What humility is not:
  • Being wimpy and letting people walk over you: Jesus was no wimp - John 2:15
  • Have no opinions, become a spiritual robot: Paul pleased God not man - Galatians 1:10
What humility is:
  • Getting and applying input - Proverbs 19:20
  • Taking correction - Proverbs 12:1
Philippians 2:5-8
How was Jesus humble?
  • He was God but left heaven to become man (like you becoming an ant)
  • He gave up being a king to serve those who didn’t love or respect him.
  • He died for you and me.
Question: Is there anyone in your life difficult for you to be humble towards?
Question: What would Jesus advise you to do with that situation?

To be like Jesus is to be humble

Followup: Humility I (part II)
What humility is not:
  • Being wimpy and letting people walk over you: Jesus was no wimp - John 2:15
  • Have no opinions, become a spiritual robot: Paul pleased God not man - Galatians 1:10
What humility is:
  • Getting and applying input - Proverbs 19:20
  • Taking correction - Proverbs 12:1
Philippians 2:5-8
How was Jesus humble?
  • He was God but left heaven to become man (like you becoming an ant)
  • He gave up being a king to serve those who didn’t love or respect him.
  • He died for you and me.
Question: Is there anyone in your life difficult for you to be humble towards?
Question: What would Jesus advise you to do with that situation?

To be like Jesus is to be humble

Followup: Humility I (part II)
What humility is not:
  • Being wimpy and letting people walk over you: Jesus was no wimp - John 2:15
  • Have no opinions, become a spiritual robot: Paul pleased God not man - Galatians 1:10
What humility is:
  • Getting and applying input - Proverbs 19:20
  • Taking correction - Proverbs 12:1
Philippians 2:5-8
How was Jesus humble?
  • He was God but left heaven to become man (like you becoming an ant)
  • He gave up being a king to serve those who didn’t love or respect him.
  • He died for you and me.
Question: Is there anyone in your life difficult for you to be humble towards?
Question: What would Jesus advise you to do with that situation?

To be like Jesus is to be humble

Proverbs on Laziness (part II)
How do I overcome being lazy (How do I become disciplined)?

1. Carpe Diem = Seize the Day

We are only given a certain amount of time in a day (and on earth)
  • The challenge of life is not that we have too little time, but in how we are going to spend the time we do have.
  • We need to make the most of every day (make a to do list to get yourself started)
2. Beware of the little things

Being disciplined is about the little things in life.
  • Anyone can have a job but do we do the little things that make us a great employee
  • Anyone can have a child but do we do the things that make us a great parent
Examples of little things to be disciplined in
  1. Punctuality
  2. Paying bills on time
  3. Sending birthday (Father’s Day, Mother’s Day cards)
  4. Picking up after yourself
  5. Keeping your room/car clean
  6. Returning phone calls
  7. Looking presentable
3. Don’t over commit
One thing that can hurt your discipline is if you over commit
  • Discipline is being able to decide what can be done and doing it the right way
  • It’s better to do three (3) things well than ten (10) things half heartedly
An important thing to do is to spend time thinking about what needs to be done and how to do it.
  • You don’t have to say “yes” to everyone and everything (our people pleasing nature will end up making us overwhelmed, stressed)
4. Worrying Won’t Work

Philippians 4:6 - Do not be anxious about anything
  • Worry is an unproductive emotion (it won’t change anything)
  • Worry is like a rocking chair (gives you something to do but gets you no where)
1 Peter 5:7 - Cast all your anxiety on him (God) because he cares for you

Tips
  1. Buy things that are useful instead of buying for status
  2. Do not buy anything that is producing an addiction in you
  3. Develop a characteristic of giving things away
  4. Develop a deeper appreciation for God’s creation
  5. Stay away from things that take your focus off of God
  6. If anything comes before you having QT’S in the morning then fast from that thing (activity) until you control it instead of it controlling you.


Prayer of the Righeous - Knowing God through His Word (part I)

Knowing God through our own study of the Bible is essential
I want to know Christ and the power of the resurrection - Philippians 3:10

We can get to know Christ through the living word of God - John 1:1
When we are truly in love with God, our prayers are fresh and exciting

God wants us to know him and be close to him
For that reason, he gave us the Counselor, the Holy Spirit - John 14:16, Romans 8:9-16
Fulfilling Jesus 's promise about not leaving us - John 14:18

The Spirit is there to help us do what we want to do
The Spirit is always working to help us have the mind of Christ - 1 Corinthians 2:16
The Spirit is grieved when we sin - Ephesians 4:30
The Spirit testifies with our spirit that we are God's children - Romans 8:15-16
The Spirit helps us in our weakness, intercedes for us - Romans 8:26

We are to pray in the Holy Spirit - Jude 20
And to pray in the spirit in all occasions - Ephesians 6:18

Our prayers are spiritual when they are deeply rooted in scripture
Prayer and Word of God are inseparable
Prayer is like fire and fuel is God's word



Mind Change - Every Situation
In every situation there is a right spiritual way to think.

It may take some time to find it.

It may take some discipline to embrace it.

But it is always there, and it is always best.

It is always the key to overcoming any challenge.

Philippians 1:27 - Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ
Ephesians 5:10 - find out what pleases the Lord
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - give thanks in all circumstances



Mind Change - God will provide
God will provide

No matter what the need. He cares.
He allows us to have needs.

He sees our needs.
He meets them all.

Isaiah 58:11 - He will give you renewed strength
Matthew 6:31-32 - Father knows that you need them
Philippians 4:19 - God will supply your every need


Mind Change - Help
These three help in our walk: faith, thanksgiving, determination

Faith inspires you.

Thanksgiving gives you perspective.

Determination keeps you moving.

2 Thessalonians 1:11 - every act prompted by your faith
Philippians 4:6 - in everything with thanksgiving
Luke 9:51 - Jesus resolutely set out for the cross


Mind Change - Problems
There is much more to life than your problem.

It may be loud.

It may shout for attention.

It may seem unbearable. But God is greater.

2 Corinthians 4:16-18 - Fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen
Romans 8:18 - Present sufferings cannot even be compared to the glory that will be revealed to us
Philippians 2:4 - Should be concerned not only about your own interests

Mind Change - Trouble
Trouble is often the ground where God cultivates some of his best crops.

No trouble is bigger than God.
No trouble is stronger than God.
No trouble overwhelms God.

Genesis 50:20 - God trouble helps save lives
Galatians 4:13 - Because of an illness that Paul preached to the Galatians
Philippians 1:12-14 - Christians were encouraged by Paul's chains

Mind Change - Trouble
Trouble is often the ground where God cultivates some of his best crops.

No trouble is bigger than God.
No trouble is stronger than God.
No trouble overwhelms God.

Genesis 50:20 - God trouble helps save lives
Galatians 4:13 - Because of an illness that Paul preached to the Galatians
Philippians 1:12-14 - Christians were encouraged by Paul's chains

Mind Change - Trouble
Trouble is often the ground where God cultivates some of his best crops.

No trouble is bigger than God.
No trouble is stronger than God.
No trouble overwhelms God.

Genesis 50:20 - God trouble helps save lives
Galatians 4:13 - Because of an illness that Paul preached to the Galatians
Philippians 1:12-14 - Christians were encouraged by Paul's chains

Mind Change - Peace

It is God’s will for you to totally trust him and to be completely at peace in every situation.

You have to learn this.

It took Paul some time to learn this (compare 2 Corinthians 1 / Philippians 4)

It will take you time to learn it.

Just decide that you will learn it.

Philippians 4:4-7 - I am able to do all things through the one who strengthens me



Mind Change - Peace

It is God’s will for you to totally trust him and to be completely at peace in every situation.

You have to learn this.

It took Paul some time to learn this (compare 2 Corinthians 1 / Philippians 4)

It will take you time to learn it.

Just decide that you will learn it.

Philippians 4:4-7 - I am able to do all things through the one who strengthens me



Mind Change - Peace

It is God’s will for you to totally trust him and to be completely at peace in every situation.

You have to learn this.

It took Paul some time to learn this (compare 2 Corinthians 1 / Philippians 4)

It will take you time to learn it.

Just decide that you will learn it.

Philippians 4:4-7 - I am able to do all things through the one who strengthens me



Mind Change - Peace

It is God’s will for you to totally trust him and to be completely at peace in every situation.

You have to learn this.

It took Paul some time to learn this (compare 2 Corinthians 1 / Philippians 4)

It will take you time to learn it.

Just decide that you will learn it.

Philippians 4:4-7 - I am able to do all things through the one who strengthens me



Gratitude (part II)
Gratitude must be seen in our prayer life
  • Philippians 4:6 - Start your prayer times every day with your thankful list
  • 1 Timothy 4:4 - Be grateful for everything God has provided you with – even the basics
Lack of gratitude is both sinful and dangerous
  • Romans 1:21 - Not thanking God can lead to involvement in other sinful areas
  • Luke 17:11-19 - Not thanking God for the blessings you receive is selfish
Gratitude should be felt and spoken on a continual basis
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - Be thankful in all circumstances, whether great or challenging
  • Ephesians 5:19-20 - Always be thankful-for all things (make a list of 200 thing to be grateful)
As you can see, gratitude is a very important part of your Christian life. Being grateful for all things and at all times will not be easy. You will need to be constantly remind yourself and be reminded by others just how awesome God is and how good He has been to you. The devil wants you to be negative-a whiner and complainer. God wants and expects you to be a grateful disciple. Make some decisions today about how thankful you will be from this day forward.

Day 4 - Learning to Pray
Luke 11:1-13
  1. Why does prayer need to be learned? Who are you learning from?
  2. (vs. 2-4) How can you praise God's name? Do you pray for God's kingdom (church) to increase?
  3. Do you pray for daily needs and for forgiveness for yourself and to also forgive others?
  4. Do you pray for help and protection from temptations?
  5. What else does Jesus want us to understand about prayer from verses 5-13?
A.C.T.S. - a simple outline for prayer is: Adoration (praise), Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication (requests).

If you pray 10 minutes of each section, you will pray a powerful 40 minutes! Read the Psalms to learn how to really praise God.

Philippians 4:6-7
  • What does God want you to pray about?
  • What are some worries you can pray about today?
  • Do you feel at peace when you pray to God? Trust he will answer!
Application: Pray following the Lord's prayer outline or using A.C.T.S. Write down some of your prayer requests and see how God answers them.

Day 4 - Learning to Pray
Luke 11:1-13
  1. Why does prayer need to be learned? Who are you learning from?
  2. (vs. 2-4) How can you praise God's name? Do you pray for God's kingdom (church) to increase?
  3. Do you pray for daily needs and for forgiveness for yourself and to also forgive others?
  4. Do you pray for help and protection from temptations?
  5. What else does Jesus want us to understand about prayer from verses 5-13?
A.C.T.S. - a simple outline for prayer is: Adoration (praise), Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication (requests).

If you pray 10 minutes of each section, you will pray a powerful 40 minutes! Read the Psalms to learn how to really praise God.

Philippians 4:6-7
  • What does God want you to pray about?
  • What are some worries you can pray about today?
  • Do you feel at peace when you pray to God? Trust he will answer!
Application: Pray following the Lord's prayer outline or using A.C.T.S. Write down some of your prayer requests and see how God answers them.

Day 22 - Giving Living
~John 13:1-17
  1. How did Jesus show the full extent of his love?
  2. What was he trying to teach his disciples?
  3. How can we obey verse 17?
  4. Give specific examples.
Acts 9:36-42
  1. Why was Dorcas so loved by everyone?
  2. Who were her "special friends"?
  3. Why do you think she did so much for them?
  4. If you died today, what would you be remembered for?
  5. What can we learn from Dorcas' life?
Philippians 2:19-24
  1. What made Timothy different from the others?
  2. What shows a genuine interest in the welfare of others?
  3. How can you be more like Timothy?
Application: Think of a practical way to show another disciple that you truly care. Do it today.

Day 22 - Giving Living
~John 13:1-17
  1. How did Jesus show the full extent of his love?
  2. What was he trying to teach his disciples?
  3. How can we obey verse 17?
  4. Give specific examples.
Acts 9:36-42
  1. Why was Dorcas so loved by everyone?
  2. Who were her "special friends"?
  3. Why do you think she did so much for them?
  4. If you died today, what would you be remembered for?
  5. What can we learn from Dorcas' life?
Philippians 2:19-24
  1. What made Timothy different from the others?
  2. What shows a genuine interest in the welfare of others?
  3. How can you be more like Timothy?
Application: Think of a practical way to show another disciple that you truly care. Do it today.

Day 22 - Giving Living
~John 13:1-17
  1. How did Jesus show the full extent of his love?
  2. What was he trying to teach his disciples?
  3. How can we obey verse 17?
  4. Give specific examples.
Acts 9:36-42
  1. Why was Dorcas so loved by everyone?
  2. Who were her "special friends"?
  3. Why do you think she did so much for them?
  4. If you died today, what would you be remembered for?
  5. What can we learn from Dorcas' life?
Philippians 2:19-24
  1. What made Timothy different from the others?
  2. What shows a genuine interest in the welfare of others?
  3. How can you be more like Timothy?
Application: Think of a practical way to show another disciple that you truly care. Do it today.

Day 22 - Giving Living
~John 13:1-17
  1. How did Jesus show the full extent of his love?
  2. What was he trying to teach his disciples?
  3. How can we obey verse 17?
  4. Give specific examples.
Acts 9:36-42
  1. Why was Dorcas so loved by everyone?
  2. Who were her "special friends"?
  3. Why do you think she did so much for them?
  4. If you died today, what would you be remembered for?
  5. What can we learn from Dorcas' life?
Philippians 2:19-24
  1. What made Timothy different from the others?
  2. What shows a genuine interest in the welfare of others?
  3. How can you be more like Timothy?
Application: Think of a practical way to show another disciple that you truly care. Do it today.

Day 22 - Giving Living
~John 13:1-17
  1. How did Jesus show the full extent of his love?
  2. What was he trying to teach his disciples?
  3. How can we obey verse 17?
  4. Give specific examples.
Acts 9:36-42
  1. Why was Dorcas so loved by everyone?
  2. Who were her "special friends"?
  3. Why do you think she did so much for them?
  4. If you died today, what would you be remembered for?
  5. What can we learn from Dorcas' life?
Philippians 2:19-24
  1. What made Timothy different from the others?
  2. What shows a genuine interest in the welfare of others?
  3. How can you be more like Timothy?
Application: Think of a practical way to show another disciple that you truly care. Do it today.

Day 22 - Giving Living
~John 13:1-17
  1. How did Jesus show the full extent of his love?
  2. What was he trying to teach his disciples?
  3. How can we obey verse 17?
  4. Give specific examples.
Acts 9:36-42
  1. Why was Dorcas so loved by everyone?
  2. Who were her "special friends"?
  3. Why do you think she did so much for them?
  4. If you died today, what would you be remembered for?
  5. What can we learn from Dorcas' life?
Philippians 2:19-24
  1. What made Timothy different from the others?
  2. What shows a genuine interest in the welfare of others?
  3. How can you be more like Timothy?
Application: Think of a practical way to show another disciple that you truly care. Do it today.

Day 30 - Joined Together in Love
Psalms 133:1-3 - What is unity and why is it so important to have it in the church?

Ephesians 4:1-3
  1. Explain verse 2 in your own words. What happens when we act the opposite of this?
  2. Why does it take every effort to keep unity?
Philippians 2:1-5
  1. What does it mean to be one in spirit and purpose?
  2. How can you consider others better that yourself?
  3. Whose interests have you been looking out for besides your own? What is the attitude of Jesus? Is yours the same?
Matthew 18:15-17 &  Matthew 5:23-24
  1. How does Jesus tell us to resolve conflicts and disagreements with one another?
  2. Who should go to whom first?
  3. Is there anyone in the church with whom you need to go and settle a problem?
Application: Think about your relationships today. Pray to be unified with all your brothers and sisters and reach out to and spend time with those you do not love as Jesus would.

Day 30 - Joined Together in Love
Psalms 133:1-3 - What is unity and why is it so important to have it in the church?

Ephesians 4:1-3
  1. Explain verse 2 in your own words. What happens when we act the opposite of this?
  2. Why does it take every effort to keep unity?
Philippians 2:1-5
  1. What does it mean to be one in spirit and purpose?
  2. How can you consider others better that yourself?
  3. Whose interests have you been looking out for besides your own? What is the attitude of Jesus? Is yours the same?
Matthew 18:15-17 &  Matthew 5:23-24
  1. How does Jesus tell us to resolve conflicts and disagreements with one another?
  2. Who should go to whom first?
  3. Is there anyone in the church with whom you need to go and settle a problem?
Application: Think about your relationships today. Pray to be unified with all your brothers and sisters and reach out to and spend time with those you do not love as Jesus would.

Day 30 - Joined Together in Love
Psalms 133:1-3 - What is unity and why is it so important to have it in the church?

Ephesians 4:1-3
  1. Explain verse 2 in your own words. What happens when we act the opposite of this?
  2. Why does it take every effort to keep unity?
Philippians 2:1-5
  1. What does it mean to be one in spirit and purpose?
  2. How can you consider others better that yourself?
  3. Whose interests have you been looking out for besides your own? What is the attitude of Jesus? Is yours the same?
Matthew 18:15-17 &  Matthew 5:23-24
  1. How does Jesus tell us to resolve conflicts and disagreements with one another?
  2. Who should go to whom first?
  3. Is there anyone in the church with whom you need to go and settle a problem?
Application: Think about your relationships today. Pray to be unified with all your brothers and sisters and reach out to and spend time with those you do not love as Jesus would.

Day 30 - Joined Together in Love
Psalms 133:1-3 - What is unity and why is it so important to have it in the church?

Ephesians 4:1-3
  1. Explain verse 2 in your own words. What happens when we act the opposite of this?
  2. Why does it take every effort to keep unity?
Philippians 2:1-5
  1. What does it mean to be one in spirit and purpose?
  2. How can you consider others better that yourself?
  3. Whose interests have you been looking out for besides your own? What is the attitude of Jesus? Is yours the same?
Matthew 18:15-17 &  Matthew 5:23-24
  1. How does Jesus tell us to resolve conflicts and disagreements with one another?
  2. Who should go to whom first?
  3. Is there anyone in the church with whom you need to go and settle a problem?
Application: Think about your relationships today. Pray to be unified with all your brothers and sisters and reach out to and spend time with those you do not love as Jesus would.

Day 30 - Joined Together in Love
Psalms 133:1-3 - What is unity and why is it so important to have it in the church?

Ephesians 4:1-3
  1. Explain verse 2 in your own words. What happens when we act the opposite of this?
  2. Why does it take every effort to keep unity?
Philippians 2:1-5
  1. What does it mean to be one in spirit and purpose?
  2. How can you consider others better that yourself?
  3. Whose interests have you been looking out for besides your own? What is the attitude of Jesus? Is yours the same?
Matthew 18:15-17 &  Matthew 5:23-24
  1. How does Jesus tell us to resolve conflicts and disagreements with one another?
  2. Who should go to whom first?
  3. Is there anyone in the church with whom you need to go and settle a problem?
Application: Think about your relationships today. Pray to be unified with all your brothers and sisters and reach out to and spend time with those you do not love as Jesus would.

Day 33 - Shining Like Stars
Philippians 2:14-16
  1. How do we "hold out the word of life" to others?
  2. What kind of example do we need to show those around us?
  3. What have you complained or argued about lately? How can you change?
1 Corinthians 9:19-23
  1. How can you be a slave to everyone? (Give examples)
  2. What are some ways you need to adapt to people in your life to help them be saved?
Psalms 126:6
  1. Why should we be "weeping" as we go out to make disciples?
  2. What is the promise for those who do?
Daniel 12:3 - Are you being wise?

Application: Pray for a heart that truly loves deeply as you share your faith today.

Day 33 - Shining Like Stars
Philippians 2:14-16
  1. How do we "hold out the word of life" to others?
  2. What kind of example do we need to show those around us?
  3. What have you complained or argued about lately? How can you change?
1 Corinthians 9:19-23
  1. How can you be a slave to everyone? (Give examples)
  2. What are some ways you need to adapt to people in your life to help them be saved?
Psalms 126:6
  1. Why should we be "weeping" as we go out to make disciples?
  2. What is the promise for those who do?
Daniel 12:3 - Are you being wise?

Application: Pray for a heart that truly loves deeply as you share your faith today.

Day 33 - Shining Like Stars
Philippians 2:14-16
  1. How do we "hold out the word of life" to others?
  2. What kind of example do we need to show those around us?
  3. What have you complained or argued about lately? How can you change?
1 Corinthians 9:19-23
  1. How can you be a slave to everyone? (Give examples)
  2. What are some ways you need to adapt to people in your life to help them be saved?
Psalms 126:6
  1. Why should we be "weeping" as we go out to make disciples?
  2. What is the promise for those who do?
Daniel 12:3 - Are you being wise?

Application: Pray for a heart that truly loves deeply as you share your faith today.

Blessings In Christ (part VIII)
Continue studying through the blessing of Jesus:

38. We become Christ's ambassadors - 2 Corinthians 5:20

39. We are blessed with spiritual blessings - Ephesians 1:3

40. Our every need will be supplied by God - Philippians 4:19

41. Given an inner strength to accomplish necessary things - Philippians 4:13

42. A good work has been done in us - Philippians 1:6

Blessings In Christ (part VIII)
Continue studying through the blessing of Jesus:

38. We become Christ's ambassadors - 2 Corinthians 5:20

39. We are blessed with spiritual blessings - Ephesians 1:3

40. Our every need will be supplied by God - Philippians 4:19

41. Given an inner strength to accomplish necessary things - Philippians 4:13

42. A good work has been done in us - Philippians 1:6

Hurtful Examples and Lies

For some, hurtful things your father did and said to you over the years
Others were wounded more by your father’s absence

The question is whether or not you will allow it to hinder you or help you.
Unresolved anger becomes a bitter cancer that poisons hearts.

We are to forgive like God forgives, completely - Ephesians 4:32
Unresolved bitterness is sin and it will distort your own fathering.

If you believe the same lies your father believed, you will also be bound by them.
For every lie that says you need to sin, lust, or feed an addiction to survive or be happy,
God says, "I will take care of you, will never leave you, and will meet all your needs" - 1 Corinthians 10:13; Philippians 4:19

Truth doesn’t set you free if you only hear it and mentally understand it.
Ask God to reveal the lies you have believed in the past and help you replace each one with His truth.

Consider memorizing verses that stand against any lies you have believed.



Behind the Scenes

Epaphroditus is a true brother, coworker, and fellow solier and he was your messenger - Philippians 2:25-26

Fans of sports don't pay enough attention to know the names of the players who do the little things to make their team successful

The same things is true of believers who do the little things necessary to make the church function

Ask anyone who is Epaphroditus is and most believers can not identify him

Although Epaphroditus remains relative obscure due to his brief mention in the Bible, Paul considered him an important part of the ministry

Many believers play key behind-the-scenes roles, we may not know their name but their impact is eternal



Behind the Scenes

Epaphroditus is a true brother, coworker, and fellow solier and he was your messenger - Philippians 2:25-26

Fans of sports don't pay enough attention to know the names of the players who do the little things to make their team successful

The same things is true of believers who do the little things necessary to make the church function

Ask anyone who is Epaphroditus is and most believers can not identify him

Although Epaphroditus remains relative obscure due to his brief mention in the Bible, Paul considered him an important part of the ministry

Many believers play key behind-the-scenes roles, we may not know their name but their impact is eternal



Contentment

I have learned how to be content with whatever I have - Philippians 4:11-12

Paul didn't learn the value of contentment in a vacuum but through his own difficulties

There is nothing like sitting naked, in pain in a bare jail cell to focus your attention on what really matters

How does a man of God learn contentment? By being satisfied with whatever provisions God make for him.

Paul did not say "I will be content once" but in every situation

When we live like this, we will defeat the spiritual enemies of envy, pride, and greed. We will also enjoy what God has already so generously given you

Contentment mean living with an attitude of gratitude for all that God has given you



Contentment

I have learned how to be content with whatever I have - Philippians 4:11-12

Paul didn't learn the value of contentment in a vacuum but through his own difficulties

There is nothing like sitting naked, in pain in a bare jail cell to focus your attention on what really matters

How does a man of God learn contentment? By being satisfied with whatever provisions God make for him.

Paul did not say "I will be content once" but in every situation

When we live like this, we will defeat the spiritual enemies of envy, pride, and greed. We will also enjoy what God has already so generously given you

Contentment mean living with an attitude of gratitude for all that God has given you



Approach to Life

Living means living for Christ - Philippians 1:21

Death is near the top of most people's list of fears

Death for the believers is nothing more than moving on to new location

Paul faced the distinct possiblity of death but there is no hint of fear in his letter

He knew

  • If he lived, could continue his work
  • If he died, he would simply move to his new location in heaven - Phippians 1:21-24

Paul couldn't decide which of the options he preferred

Paul never forgot God superinteneded everything that happened to him

When you live free from the fear of death or life, you will never have to worry about what lies ahead.

 



Foresightful

Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead - Philippians 3:13

God promises to bless you when you focus on what he calls you to do today and in the future

Paul remembered the past and the lessons he had learned from it

He often refered to his past but he didn't live there

Paul looked forward to things God had for him - namely finishing the race of faith

God has a wonderful plan for your future

Don't focus so much on where you've been that you lose sight of where you are headed



Selflessness

But you know how Timothy has proved himself - Philippians 2:22

Paul instructed the Philippians to selflessly lookout for each others' needs - Philippians 2:3-4

Paul a face to selflessness he discribed - Timothy, who was known for selflessness:

  • He didn't just possess God's love, he poured it out on others
  • He served with little concern for himself

Timothy didn't set himself apart by bragging but by serving others from a sincere and compassionate heart



Selflessness

But you know how Timothy has proved himself - Philippians 2:22

Paul instructed the Philippians to selflessly lookout for each others' needs - Philippians 2:3-4

Paul a face to selflessness he discribed - Timothy, who was known for selflessness:

  • He didn't just possess God's love, he poured it out on others
  • He served with little concern for himself

Timothy didn't set himself apart by bragging but by serving others from a sincere and compassionate heart



Selflessness

But you know how Timothy has proved himself - Philippians 2:22

Paul instructed the Philippians to selflessly lookout for each others' needs - Philippians 2:3-4

Paul a face to selflessness he discribed - Timothy, who was known for selflessness:

  • He didn't just possess God's love, he poured it out on others
  • He served with little concern for himself

Timothy didn't set himself apart by bragging but by serving others from a sincere and compassionate heart



Friendliness

Common taunt of Scribes and Pharises that Jesus was a friend of sinners

He was friendly to the lowest and the best of society, a trait which created great scandal

These three statements about Jesus spoke a lot about how Jesus' heart toward others:

  • He saved himself; he cannot save himself - Mark 15:13
  • He went about doing good
  • Friend of sinners

They tried to use his friendiness against him

Example: Tax collectors - ones who gathered taxes by any means nessary including by extortion or other dishonest measures

  • Considered traitors to their country
  • Objects of hatred and scron
  • Their money was considered tained and not accepted in the synagogue
  • Their oath was worthless
  • Could not be a witness in a court of law
  • Pelted with sneers by passers by
  • Looked as wild beasts

Jesus made friends with them despite these truths

It was one thing to talk down to a bad man and give good advise, it is another to eat with them

Jesus cross the chasm over which no man was willing to do in that day and lost his reputation for the sake of being brotherly/friendly

Made himself nothing because he was determined on being firendly to all - Philippians 2:17

Everyone is part of the human race, children of God, despite what they have done

 



Next >>

Start with a Topic
Search Bible