In Philippians 4:8-9 Paul gives us the qualities upon which we should think in order to be more Godly people.  These are things that should always be in our minds and hearts in every waking moment.  Paul tells us that we should think about things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and are of good report; "if there be any virtue and if there be any praise, think on these things."  We are to follow the example that Paul has given us by what we have learned, heard, and seen in him, that is what we should do.  In our lives, we will do what we think or meditate on the most.  Unfortunately, living in an earthly world, we often think about things that pull us away from Godliness.  Our actions are a result of the thoughts we are thinking.  Do we meditate on the Word of God as much as we should?  Whose example am I following?  What example am I setting for others?  Spending more time with and meditating on the Word of God found in the Bible will set us on the right path.

In Philippians 4:6-7 Paul reminds us about the power of prayer.  We should not be anxious about anything, but we should take everything to God in prayer.  Do not let Satan take back ground that you have gained.  We are often pulled in different directions, creating anxiety in our lives.  This can lead to physical, mental, and emotional stress.  Prayer is a request made known to God.  In prayer we should show adoration for God, make our needs known to Him, and give thanks for blessings.  In doing this, we will receive the peace of God which passes all understanding and keeps our hearts and minds through Jesus Christ.

In Philippians 4:4 we hear Paul's eternal words, "Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice."  The main theme in his letter to the church at Philippi is filled with joy and rejoicing in the Lord.  He reminds the church, and also us today, that real joy is found only in the Lord.  We let ourselves be burdened by things like living in the past, our failures, and perhaps a sense of melancholy that can even be inherited.  But, even though Paul is in a terrible prison and no doubt is suffering physically, he knows that darkness and trials can only be weathered through a right attitude in his relationship with God through Jesus Christ.  We need to be obedient to God and let the Holy Spirt work on us.  Our salvation through Christ leaves us not with a glass half empty or half full, but a glass that is always filled to overflowing!  We need to love one another, be at peace with one another, and rejoice always . . . and again, I say Rejoice!

In Philippians 4:1-3 Paul expresses his love and concern for his "brethren dearly beloved" in Philippi.  He knows that there are some disagreements among two of the women and he seeks to encourage the others to help them resolve their differences and "be of the same mind in the Lord."  There are important lessons for today's church in these 3 verses.  1) Love all, 2) Be fair and get along, 3) Be at peace with one another, 4) Help each other, and 5) See and focus on the good in others.  Can we stand firm in our support of each other?  What would Paul write to us?

Philippians 3:15-21  Living Christ-like is a life-long endeavor.  

1. (v.15) Don't get distracted. The Holy Spirit will show you what's right and what's wrong, and will guide us and teach us.  It takes work.

2. (v.16) Our actions should line up with our beliefs.  Practice what you know.  Be consistent.  Live like a good Christ follower.

3. (v.17) We need good examples of good Christians.  Who are you following?  Who is your example?  What kind of example are you setting?  Are those who follow you learning to do what is right?

4. (v.18-19) We need to avoid bad examples.  Paul says that they follow their belly.  There are plenty of bad examples of those who claim to be Christians, but do not set good examples.  Good examples show us Christ-like behaviors.

5. (v.20) Remember where our citizenship lies . . . in Heaven.  How we talk, walk, and act tells others about us.

6. (v.21) Realize what is coming.  We will be transformed by Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit.  Where are your roots?  Where is your citizenship?  Let the present push you toward the future. 

In Philippians 3:12-14 Paul tells us that the race isn't over.  Two things we need to know, 1) we are all sinners, and 2) Christ is a Great Savior.  We are called and kept safe by Jesus Christ.  Don't look back and live in the past.  Instead, focus on the future because God has a plan for you.  The "high calling of God in Christ Jesus" gives us a goal.  When we know we are heaven-bound where the saints are, we can be happy here.  It's time to grow up and live your life living for Jesus Christ.

Philippians 3:7-11

We are the biggest obstacle the Holy Spirit has to overcome while transforming us into the image of Jesus Christ.  Gain for me is a loss for Christ.  Paul says that when he LOST his wealth and position (he called it dung) he WON with Christ.  What will you say when God asks you, "How did you live your life?"  Jesus died as a sacrifice for our sins.  He was sinless and he gives us his righteousness.  God calls us sheep because we tend to wander.  I don't deserve salvation, but Jesus gives it to all.   Remember . . . Jesus plus nothing = EVERYTHING!

Philippians 3:1-6  

Paul commands us to "Rejoice" and "Beware".  Anything that takes away from "Jesus only" is evil.  You can't be obedient enough. We should worship God in the Spirit, Rejoice in Christ, and have no confidence in the flesh.  Trusting in your heritage, religion, zeal, or confidence will not redeem you.  Only in Jesus is your faith, hope, and confidence.  

Seven ideas upon which to focus for 2021:

1. Let's find our joy in Jesus

2. Let's let love be our language

3. Let's let mercy be our attitude

4. Let's let faithfulness be our aim

5. Let's let truth be our fuel

6. Let's let gentleness guide our actions

7. Let's let God's glory by our goal

Sermon by Pastor Andy Plank, December 6, 2020     

Luke 1:5-16 . . . . How is your prayer life? Let God answer in His own TIME, in His own WAY, in His own POWER, and in His own PURPOSE.  Let God BE God!