1 Peter 4:7-11 NRSV

Spiritual Gifts and Serving One Another

John 13:31-35 ESV

Philippians 4:10-23

We each encounter challenges in life, even if were living for God. Sometimes its our fault, but sometimes life just happens. This message identifies three powerful lessons and four practices to successfully navigate lifes difficulties

Paul, as he wraps up his message, resounds a recurring theme in the Book of Philippians that the church be of one accord; 1: 27, 2: 1 4, which he also exemplifies in his relationship with Timothy; 1: 20. He reaches into time and echoes the message from Christs prayer for the Believers, that we may all be one, as Christ and God the Father are one! John 17: 20 23

We aspire to be people that fulfil our calling as sisters and brothers in the Family of God as we love God and love one another. We are not perfect here; but Jesus is. By His grace, we are His church. "There is no problem in human life that apprenticeship to Jesus cannot solve. ~ Dallas Willard

Paul encourages the Philippians to rejoice in the Lord and warns them against false teachers who put confidence in the flesh. He contrasts this with his own background and achievements, which he now considers worthless compared to knowing Christ. The surpassing value of knowing Jesus and gaining righteousness through faith in Him is what ultimately gives the believer a deeper joy. Paul is able to consider all of his works as rubbish because he has experienced something supremely greater.

Philippians 2:19-30

Philippians 2:12-18

Freedom in Christ that cries out against others with hate and division is not true freedom. Freedom that remains passive in a culture of hate and ignores that lives are being destroyed, is no freedom at all. We do have the freedom in Christ to use the weapons of prayer, kindness, and above all else, love.