There is also a kind of anxiety that though it would appear as if it has attacked us and we feel as though we are helpless and innocent victims of its marauding of our peace, the reality is, it stems out of a heart that is subtly

and even unknowingly doubting God . A heart that is not firmly anchored in His greatness and His goodness and that is leaning upon self to provide what only God can ultimately give.

As we move into chapter 4 this morning we see that Paul gets downright pointed in his words. He directly and specifically confronts two ladies who were not getting along! He calls them out openly in this letter to the whole church!

It’s really quite shocking when you think about it. You would expect this to be listed among the things that no pastor should ever do!

But here he is, going for it! And the temptation might be just to pull out the pop-corn, to sit back and just watch how this goes. But let me encourage you, there is a lot we can learn from this as a church. This is for us as we seek to strive together in unity.

What is your greatest desire? What do you long for?

What are you thinking right now: "Oh, if I could just have more of THAT then I would be happy."

Does it fit in the category of the “belly” ? The desires of the body,

Comfort

Wealth

Physical pleasure

Health and fitness

Or food and drink

These people, who are running down the path to their own eternal destruction, the desires of the body have become their god. And because their god is their belly, their highest good is to satisfy their cravings and desires.

John 11:25-27 - Jesus is Life by Redemption Olds

Genesis 2:15-17 - The Curse by Redemption Olds

What does it mean to be a true believer? What does that look like? We are so prone to look at the outward appearance, to see those who are the strictest and most rigid, those who are legalistic, but Paul says, no it’s those who worship by the spirit of God and exalt in Christ.

Do you see that in your own heart?

Is there a JOY in Him, a celebration of Christ,a nd a worship and service of God that flows out of an internal motivation?

Gospel Focused Resolve - Philippians 3:12-16 by Redemption Olds

There are things that threaten to shake us physically, financially, spiritually,

And all we can think is “Jesus get me OUT of this!”

I want the fear relieved!

I want the threat to go away!

But so often, as it was for the disciples the Lord’s plan is not to remove us from the fear… but to meet us in it. To come into the dark locked room of our fearful hearts and stand among us and offer peace, in the middle of the trial.

Above All, Sabbath Exodus 31 12-18 by Redemption Olds

Exodus 28-29 The Covering and Calling of the Priests by Redemption Olds