Philippians 1:14, 29 ESV
And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.
For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake,
Three contrasts impressed me in this chapter: hope -vs- despair, boldness -vs- fear, and unity -vs- divisiveness. Hope, boldness and unity despite the truth that it was "granted" to them that they should "suffer for his sake. Hope, boldness and unity despite the fact that Paul is imprisoned for his faith. Hope, boldness and unity despite the fact that some people are actually preaching the gospel from impure and improper motives, hoping to make things harder for Paul in prison.
I have a difficult time comprehending how the imprisonment of Paul caused them to be more bold in their witness. Yet, that is exactly what has happened. That is the very thing that fills Paul with joy. That is the thing that has caused their reputation to spread. That confidence is not from their flesh, but from the Spirit.
It is amazing how a little discomfort, a little inconvenience causes us to despair, fear and divide, whereas this major " inconvenience" in the lives of the Philippians has resulted in hope and boldness. Paul's challenge to them then is not to lose their unity. Often difficulties either unite those going through them together, or divide over petty differences. That disunity will then work to destroy the hope and boldness as well.
Father, whatever suffering, difficulty or inconvenience you choose to being into our lives, may it result in hope, boldness and unity, to your glory.
By His grace,
Rick Weinert
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