Philippians 1:12-19
Paul had paid a high price for his bold efforts to share the Good News about Jesus. But rather than resenting the hardships (including being imprisoned), Paul saw these experiences as helping to spread the Gospel. He witnessed to everyone around him including the prison guards. His imprisonment encouraged other believers to speak boldly about God's message. Paul reminds us that our present circumstances are not as important as what we do with them! God wants us to serve Him joyfully and faithfully in the place He has put us.
Paul realized that some were preaching with impure motives, yet he didn't feel it necessary to try to correct or control them. He actually rejoiced that the message about Christ was being preached. This is truly a selfless position to take.
Psalm 82
Did you ever think of this? God will judge the judges! Sometimes we become frustrated with our justice system though here they are called on to hand down just decisions, to give justice to the poor, the orphan, the oppressed, and the destitute. It's important to remember that even the judges of this earth will one day answer to the Judge of the universe. "...you are all children of the Most High. But you will die like mere mortals and fall like every other ruler." vv. 6-7 The New Testament in
1 Timothy 2:2 tells us to pray for everyone who has authority over us "so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity."
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