Furthering the Gospel

Philippians 1:12 ESV

“I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel…”

Paul is writing a letter to the Philippian church from prison, thanking them for their gift that they sent him. Paul thanks the church for the gift, then he reveals that his persecution, imprisonment, hardships, trials and troubles for Jesus are in his words in 2 Corinthians just “momentary affliction(s).” His concern was not the persecutions, troubles, and hardships because these persecutions were advancing the Gospel. How? These persecutions made him stronger, bolder, and resilient. Then it began to affect the fellow laborers in Christ around him. They became bold and began to spread the Gospel even more.

What has God done in you through your persecutions and trials? Share that and make others stronger.

Prayer:

Lord, Sometimes it seems like our trials and troubles are just personal, no one needs to know about them, but when You rise up through our praise of how You saw us through, those things can and will encourage others. Help us to share how You have brought us through and made us stronger, wiser, more resilient to spread Your Gospel. In Your name Lord Jesus we ask, Amen!