Philippians 1:19-20
...for I know that through your prayers and God's provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
The reason for Paul to experience God's victory in his life is that he has determined to live for the Lord, as he said "Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death." What a heroic aspiration! There is only one thing in his life, and that is to live out the form of the Lord. He has no fear whether it's by life or by death, as he's determine to not let anything hinder him from achieving this goal. When the circumstance is smooth, he will live like Christ; when the circumstance is rough, he will suffer like Christ. Isn't that the kind of testimony that God wants us to live out?
When you are happy, have you considered that you should be a happy Christian? Many people leave Jesus at home when they go on vacation; they would have fun in whichever way they want and they forget that they are Christians. Some people would say goodbye and "see you next week" to Jesus as soon as they leave church. Also, when you are suffering, did you consider suffering like Christian? Many people lose their faith as soon as they encounter hardship; they stop going to church and stop serving God. Moreover, do you live like a Christian when you are alone? One time I was waiting alone for a flight in Seoul, Korea, and I thought no one could possibly know me there. But the Spirit of the Lord reminded me: "Even when you are all alone, are you will to obey faithfully?" Since then, I often reminded myself to live like Christ even when I am alone.
Are you willing to be determined to live for the Lord? The brothers must pay special attention because we are often burdened by things of the world and we'd do whatever it takes to make a better living, but are we willing to have great aspiration for the kingdom of God like Paul did, that "now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death?"
Pray with Pastor Tong
Lord, please forgive me, for I often neglect your calling for my life, which is not only for my life to be delivered but also for me to live for you. May the Lord constantly remind me and give me a willing heart to live for you. I thank you and I pray in the victorious name of Jesus, amen!
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