Day 5

“I thank my God every time I remember you.  In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Phil. 1:3-6

I love to read Paul’s letters to the churches that he had visited because they are real letters to real people that he actually knew and loved!  His trips and experiences are historical events that cannot be denied.  In these letters, Paul shares his deepest feelings, shows us his heart about how much he loved these people, how much he loved God, and how much he wanted to share with them the TRULY GOOD NEWS about life in Jesus Christ!  What an example for each of us to be bold and compassionate with our faith, simply because we also love our friends and family and neighborhoods.

In this letter, Paul is so thankful and joyful as he remembers the Philippian church!  And it is so cool… Paul not only remembers them. He gives thanks and prays for all of them because they have been his partners in the work of God, knowing that God will never stop his work in their lives until the day of Jesus.  Wouldn’t you love to get such an encouraging letter?  I know that I would.  I wonder if Paul received as much joy from writing this letter as the Philippians received when they read it? When is the last time that you shared some joy and good news with those around you, simply because of your love for them?

Father God,

Thank You for the joy that You give us with our life in Jesus.  While life can be tough, we know that You work all things for the good of those who love You and are called according to Your purpose.  Please allow us to share our joy in Jesus with those around us. Amen.

-Gary Mills