Today’s Thought “Family Expansion” G. Ward

Philippians 1: ⁷ For it is only right for me to feel this way about you all, because I have you in my heart, since both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers of grace with me. 

The Apostle Paul’s commendation for the church at Philippi is significant to being a church without walls, no matter the potential hazards ahead (cf. Gal.6:10). His being imprisoned for the cause of the gospel, witnessed those congregants complete support with great prayers that truly understood our Lord’s preparation for every believer to know - we cannot be HIS disciple unless we’re ready for such a surrender that denies ourselves a presumable preservation that may, or may not involve our safety. Moreover, he’d remind them of the Savior’s presence, so unrelenting, by insisting they knew HE alone began their salvation; so, HE wouldn’t leave them to their own theorizing, but would provide them with resolute answers from HIS Word (John 14:26-27); for HE desired the outsider’s repentance, as demonstrated in having received ours (2 Pe.3:9).

That charge remains, for HIS church is not sectarian (that is, divided – Eph.4:5-6). So, we must remember, our Lord will have mercy on whom HE chooses and whereas we called to an indiscriminate posture that proclaims HIM as sole sufficiency (i.e., HE can save them, grant them HIS righteousness, give them eternal life, without requiring their works, particularly since anything offered would be entirely deficient), we say, send us.

Thank You Father God, for allowing our new spiritual energy (this day) to continue in the race proposed. May our eyes see our Savior at the finish line; for HE provides that view as the culminating Hope we never imagined could exist. May all who’ve placed their complete trust in HIM – seek to prepare more than ever before in Your Word - that provides escape from this world’s lack of definitive Truth that graciously grants any introductory sessions (from us) concerning their Maker, our Blessed Redeemer Jesus, Amen.