During a trial, pray and ask God for love, knowledge and discernment so you can understand how the trial purifies your character.----Pray as a first response, not as a last resort.----Love is not always blind, but perceptive, because love carefully scrutinizes to distinguish between right and wrong.

Before we study Paul's prayer in Philippians 1-9-11, let's first remind ourselves what the whole Bible says about prayer.

A Christian experiences joy and thanksgiving in times of trials by prioritizing eternal, unchanging truths- love others, preach the gospel, and know that Christ produces heartfelt affections.----Paul's thankful attitude towards the Philippians was righteous -1-7-8---a. By having others in your heart -1-7a---b. By partnering in gospel ministry -1-7b---c. By recognizing how Christ produces heartfelt affections -1-8-

I. What is God like- He is holy.--II. What is man like- Man is sinful.--III. What is God's solution to your problem- The person and work of Jesus Christ--IV. How can I be saved from God's wrath- Repent and believe

Confidence that God will finish His good work of salvation fuels thanksgiving.

Paul joyfully thanks God for the Philippians because they labored to make known the gospel.

Paul introduces Philippians by presenting necessary truths about Christians and God. Therefore, as you humbly read Philippians, you can have unity and joy in the Christian life- - because you are a saint and a slave - because God provides the necessary grace and peace

God is holy.--Man is sinful.--Christ alone saves.--Repent and believe.