Senior Pastor’s Devotional
Day 45 Movement Control Order – “Strategic Psalm 91 Watch”

SCRIPTURES TO READ:- PHILIPPIANS 1 :27- 30.
LESSON TO BE LEARNT: JOY IN THE MIDST OF BATTLE.

The Christian life is not a playground. It is a ‘battleground’.-We are the children of God, enjoying the fellowship of the Gospel; we are servants sharing the furtherance of the Gospel; but we are also soldiers of the Gospel. 

Paul explains in this paragraph how to be victorious in this battle. 

1. The opening statement in 1:27 (Eng. bible) says, “whatever happens….” What could happen and what does Paul expect them to do?

There are a lot of things that could happen. Will Paul be released from prison?  Will there be confusion that will be caused by others who were stirring trouble? Will there be new restrictions and hardships for preaching the gospel? All these may be the pending issues. 

Paul said, ‘whatever happens, they must conduct themselves in a manner worthy of the gospel.” –v 27a.- They are encouraged to ‘stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel.’ v. 27b.

         In other words, they must not allow confusion and          pressure to divide them but to be united in continuing the work of the gospel.

2. Phil 1:28-30.
Paul prepared their hearts by teaching and assuring them:-
*These people will be destroyed ultimately but they will be saved. 
*That God’s purpose is that they not only believe but also to suffer for Him. -Paul made use of his own example of how, he himself is going through struggle, and therefore, they should not be alarmed or feel alone.

Paul demonstrated and taught that we must have a calm and confident courage to face struggles. In times of crisis, others may be nervous and afraid but the Christian can be serene and calm. This is a wonderful testimony to those who have yet to believe…..and I think in such a time as this that we as the children of God will shine with the peace, calm and unity that we can have.

Ps Lawrence.