How do people try to deal with their sin apart from Jesus? God makes forgiveness abundantly available, but we must be looking in the right place. More specifically, we must be looking to the right person—Jesus. In Colossians 2:4-15, we learn that forgiveness of sin is found only through faith in Jesus.

ESV passage Colossians 2:4-15.

This week we’re going to begin our study of Colossians by discussing the truth that the power of the gospel frees us from sin and Satan’s control.

ESV passage Colossians 1:9-23

Imagine these two scenes. The first is of a mountain lake away from all the hustle and bustle. The motionless water acts like a mirror, reflecting the beauty and quiet of the moment. In the second scene, a bird calmly sits on her nest built in a small opening in a rock. Her nest is hidden by a raging waterfall with a storm approaching in the horizon. In both scenes, we find peace. God is present in both the still moments and the storms. Paul reminded the Philippians that peace was found in God’s presence regardless of the circumstances.

What picture comes to mind at the mention of contentment? We might picture a dog soaking in the sun while lying on green grass. Others might think of relaxing in a favorite recliner following a delicious meal. Still others might envision a healthy infant lying cozily in its mother’s arms or cuddled in its crib. Most of us have this picture of contentment, but we somehow rarely see ourselves in that picture. Paul challenged the Philippians to pursue contentment.

ESV passage Philippians 4:1-20

In Philippians 3:8-21 we discover that believers gain joy through knowing Jesus and living in obedience to Him

Sometimes we see genuine humility as the enemy of joy. To be humble, we think we must consider ourselves unworthy and therefore not able to enjoy life. But Jesus was humble and joyful. For Jesus, humility was not about feeling inferior; He made some rather lofty claims about Himself. Rather, His humility was more a matter of putting others and their needs above of His own.

ESV Passage Philippians 2:1-15

Christians in some areas of our world face constant pressure. Intimidation, mob beatings, and government censure are just a few of the difficulties faced. These difficulties seem to encourage and not discourage believers, nor do they keep the gospel from spreading. These believers seem to have a greater focus, just like the focus of an athlete trying to improve or train for a sport. But unlike many athletes, these believers find joy and peace in the middle of the challenges faced.

ESV passage Philippians 1:12-26

This week we begin our study of the Book of Philippians. We know that friends who will pray for us are treasured. Their prayers encourage, direct, and challenge us in our spiritual lives. Their prayers create an unbreakable bond with prayer being one way of communicating love for another person. Paul had forged a special relationship with the believers in Philippi, and that relationship grew through genuine prayer that focused on continued spiritual growth.

ESV passage Philippians 1:1-11

The wise person fears and obeys God.

ESV passage Ecclesiastes 12:1-14.

The wise person gratefully lives all the days he or she is granted.

ESV passage Ecclesiastes 9:1-10

The wise person realizes God offers wisdom to the imperfect.

ESV passage Ecclesiastes 7:11-22