I have read Philippians Chapter 1 many times over the years. The wonder and beauty of Scripture is how it is able to fall like you had never read it before. The Lord knows exactly how to bring a portion to life in order to bring encouragement and hope.
During Paul’s time of ministry, he had experienced much hardships, pains, and trials and yet he remained both joyful and hopeful.
“For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6, NASB)
He was sure whatever life should bring his way, God was going to bring His purposes and work in his life to completion.
But Paul was certain of even more:
“Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel.” (Philippians 1:12, NASB)
Paul was sure that the circumstances in his life were for a greater purpose. And the same is true of our lives today.
What if through our current circumstances, God was going to work to bless the lives of those around us?
What if He were going to make Himself known, recognizable, to someone in need?
Perhaps someone will see the difference God makes in our situations and will find hope for their own life.
God has given us these examples seen in the lives of those in Scripture so that we too, would endure and trust Him in every and all circumstances of life.
We can trust Him to work through each day with us so our lives flourish. As we experience His help each day, He removes any doubts which we may entertain.
“God will make our obstacles serve His purposes. We all have mountains in our lives, and often they are people and things that threaten to block the progress of our spiritual life …
There is nothing in your life that distresses or concerns you that cannot become submissive to the highest purpose. Remember, they are God’s mountains. He puts them there for a reason, and we know He will never fail to keep His promise.
“God understands its way, And He knows its place. For He looks to the ends of the earth And sees everything under the heavens.” (Job 28:23-24, NASB)
The purpose of our trials is not only to test our worthiness but also to increase it, just as the mighty oak is tested by the storms as well as strengthened by them.”
(from Streams in the Desert by L. B. Cowman, August 2, page 296)
May our lives be found in Him
and may His beauty be seen in us.
The circumstances of life can surely have us praying all throughout our day. Perhaps that is the reason Karen Friday’s post, Prayer Draws Our Hearts Closer to God, stood out last week. “Because in an uncertain world, Lord, You are my undeniable hope, an unshakable anchor for my soul.” Amen.
Come, sit a spell. Bring your coffee, your posts, and your thoughts. If you link up, kindly visit those who have drawn up a seat around you.
Photo by Daniel Olah on Unsplash
Hi Joanne, this is such an encouraging post. We all go through things, and once we see past our own hurt, and onto what the Lord wants to do with us in those circumstances, we are able to use it for His purposes and ultimately for our good.
God bless
Tracy
I remember reading somewhere—I think in something by Elisabeth Elliot—that sometimes our trials are not just for our sake, but to encourage others as they see God at work in our lives. It took me a long time to realize that problems or obstacles or trials weren’t problems to God, that He allowed those things for a purpose. My reaction too often is “Please deliver me as soon as possible,” but I’m trying to learn what He wants me to along the way.
Joanne, Philippians 1:6 has been one of my favorite verses since I was a child. So much encouragement wrapped up in a few words. I’m with Barbara in wanting quick deliverance from problems, but it does help to remember that God often has a much bigger purpose for our struggles and trials than we could ever imagine. Hugs, friend.
God is in the redemption business, for sure. I’m so grateful that He can redeem even our worst of seasons to bring others to Himself, to bring glory to Himself, to expand His Kingdom.
He restores the years the locusts have eaten. (Joel)
Thank you for this post Joanne. Such a timely one for me at the moment.
Blessings sweet friend, Jennifer
Thank you, Joanne for the reminder that our pain has a purpose. No matter how messy or difficult our circumstances may be, God redeems all for our good and His glory, and in so doing impacts the entire body of Christ. Such beautiful and hope-filled thoughts.
I like that image of the wind strengthening the oak. It’s like resistance or strength training. Not fun, but fruitful!
Our trials make us stronger and I’m so thankful our Lord is with us every step of the way. You are right–when others see our trust in the Lord in the midst of our challenges, their faith is strengthened as well. Thank you, Joanne.
He uses everything for good – whether for us or those who hear/see our testimony. It reminds me of Corrie ten Booms’ story of embroidery work. We see the underside with the knots and crisscrossing of thread, but He sees the beautiful pattern on top. The gold thread stands out when surrounded by darker threads.
A very encouraging post, Joanna. May we live out our days in victory, knowing that He works everything out for His glory — and He is a good.
Our greatest trials often result in our greatest blessings. That doesn’t make them easy. It does make them worthwhile.
I’m reading through Acts. Yesterday I was in chapter 8 where many of the Christians in Jerusalem flee because of the persecution. Yet, God uses it all in a mighty way to spread the gospel. Another example of how God uses our hardships for good. Thanks for sharing and hosting, Joanne. 🙂