Main Idea
Everyone is living for something. Paul was chained to a Roman guard, facing possible execution, and still called himself joyful. The secret was one blank he had already filled in. The question is what’s in yours.
Scripture
Philippians 1:12-14
Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.
Acts 28:16, 30
When we got to Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a soldier to guard him… For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him.
Mark 4:38
Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”
Philippians 1:12
Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel.
Philippians 4:22
All God’s people here send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household.
Acts 16:25
About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.
Romans 8:28
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Philippians 1:18-20
But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, 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.
Job 13:16
Indeed, this will turn out for my deliverance, for no godless person would dare come before him!
Philippians 1:21-24
For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.
John 17:19
For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified.
DBS Questions
- What stood out to you in this passage, and why?
- What does this passage show us about God and how He works?
- What does it show us about people, including us?
- Paul says, “For to me, to live is Christ.” If you’re honest, what has been in that blank for you lately?
- What is one thing you will obey from this passage this week, and who will you share it with?
