Discovering Joy in Philippians Online | Session 2
Welcome back!
Go ahead and watch the Session 2 video. After it finishes, read the questions below the video and answer them in the comments section. After the questions, you’ll find the homework assignment for the next week. Complete the assignment in Discovering Joy in Philippians. There will be a total of twelve sessions, including this introductory session.
If you can’t participate now, that’s okay. I’ll leave these posts up for you to do when you’re ready.
Questions to answer in the comments:
- What is one thing that stood out to you when you read through Philippians this week (page 13)?
- How does responding to suffering with prayer and singing hymns affect your joy and peace (page 21)?
- Describe what you currently do with your time that you consider ministry (page 25).
Before watching next week’s video…
Complete Chapter 2: Watch a Good Work Begin. Come back next week to discuss.
1) What stood out to me the most: Paul tells the Philippians to outdo one another in showing love and to consider others as more significant than themselves. As I’ve been with people this week, I’ve asked myself how to treat them as more significant.
2) Prayer helps me view suffering in light of eternity and it corrects mistaken attitudes. Singing calms anxiety and helps me focus on the Lord. Thus, prayer and singing hymns increase joy and peace.
3) For ministry, I write Bible studies, try to encourage people in person and on social media, and meet with Christian girlfriends at a book club.
Paul’s positive attitude while in the worst imaginable place. He rejoiced in the Lord no matter what!
Whenever I take my sorrows to God he is faithful to turn my pain into joy.
I lead a community group at my church for women.
Hi, Rebecca!
1) Yes, his attitude amazes me too.
2) I agree.
3) Awesome ministry!
Paul is pouring out the love, peace and joy that Vhrist can give in any situation and he wants the Philippians to live in the joy and victory of that.
I sing praise songs and hymns and cry and pray and worship and I am comforted and reassured that God is with me, I am not alone, I am not of this world but of His glorious Kingdom and in His time and His will, all is well with me.
I am a member of my church’s worship choir and I help in children’s choir. I volunteer with Salvation Army through their auxiliary. This question has made me ponder and wonder what He would have me do on my own. There are a lot of people in my city who sit on corners of busy streets and ask for help…the LORD has placed on my heart not to only give my change. This week I bought some Billy Graham tracks on how to be a Christian, packages of peanut butter crackers and and am passing out a one dollar bill. I’ve only given one…now I get in the car and pray that I will see someone on a corner!
Hi, Shannon! 1) Yes, he is. I like that. 2) Oh, wonderful. 3) You do a lot of ministry! I love all these examples.
Response to questions from week one.
1) In his circumstances Paul learned how to have joy in Jesus and was excited for the Philippian church to receive and know the same joy.
2) When talking to Abba about my concerns (I’ve never had to suffer as so many Christians have and are even now), my heart and mind are relieved because I’m reminded that my Father loves me and will use all things to my benefit of growing to be more like Jesus. Listening to and singing praise and worship songs puts my focus on the Lord and the outcome in my heart is peace and joy.
3) Since it is physically and health-wise a challenge to get out, we give financially to ministries that spread the gospel of Jesus, as led by the Holy Spirit. I also strive to be an encourager to those I talk to, either by phone or social media, or in person.
Cathy, I love this. #1 Yes, his excitement is evident. #2 Yep! #3 Giving to missionary ministries is such an important ministry! Thanks so much for sharing!!
Paul reminds the Philippians that they are Work in Progress: God has started a good work in them and when Jesus returns he’ll finish the job and change their weak mortal bodies into glorious bodies like his own. In the meantime choose JOY! Remember we are citizens of heaven! I can’t wait to get my heavenly body!
Praising God and singing to God takes my mind off my problems and helps me focus on my heavenly Father. Increases Joy and Peace.
I am actively involved in the new Craft Group at Church. On 22nd June we are holding a Community event in the local park to reach out to the local residents. I am working on easy, fun craft activities we can do in a field! I have started with a card based on Pam’s Radiant Joy. I have an embossing folder with sun rays and it makes a nice pocket size place to record moments of Joy. Also hope to do some bookmarks to colour in and making Christian cards for various occasions.
Wow, Jane! I love the WIP part of Philippians too. There is so much to love in Philippians! And looking forward to my heavenly, glorious new body gives me great joy. Yep–praising and singing do that. I love your outreach idea! Could you remind people where your church is in case any one is near and would like to get involved? Everyone is going to want to see photos of the event and of your folder, etc. I think if you post photos of what you’re creating online (such as your church’s website), you can use the IMG button to link to them. Or, post a photo in the comments of Unit 2 and I’ll try to post it here.
Hi Jean I will try! to be honest, trying to get my pictures uploaded from my new phone nearly stole some of my joy this week! I’m no expert on Face Book and don’t know what to do for the #tag!?
Any advice appreciated. Thank you Jane xxx
I recently got a new phone, too, and have been learning all the same! If you have a Samsung, I can help. Meanwhile, later today I’ll try to put a photo in a comment to see if I can figure it out. If it works, I’ll send you the instructions.
Yippeeee I did it! not quite sure how, so I hope I can do it again! xx
Oh, Jane, you had me at ‘Craft Group at Church’! There is such joy in sharing the love of God through mission outreach and the most simple of crafts. I pray the Lord blesses the work of your hands and magnifies the love in your heart to spread as contagious JOY to others!
Hi Patti, thank you for you blessing. The Community outreach Family Fun Day was yesterday and was really successful xx
1.How he starts out in verse 2 anout Grace and peace and verse 4 He says I always pray with joy. 2.I do both praying and sing helps me take it off the problem and I focuse on God.3. I do Vaction Bible School every year. Sever at a food pantry, work with 3, 4, 5, on wensday night talk about missionary. Talk to others about Jesus. Encourage othwes, help others, send a bible verse to some friend for 5 days.
Oh, Becky, this is all wonderful! #1 Agree–those verses are amazing. #2 Yes! #3 Wonderful! What a ministry that you help children AND the poor! Love hearing all you’re doing. You’re living the servant’s life just as Jesus called you to do! Thank you for sharing.
#1 Even thought Paul was suffering he was encouraging others. He was focused on someone other than himself. #2 I often forget to pray until I am in a better head space. But singing always lifts me up <3 I tend to sing more than pray. #3 My family is who I am really trying to reach. I am trying to be the best example by not missing worship services, by reading the bible to my grandsons. I look for opportunities to share the gospel with anyone who will listen.
Hi, Frankie! 1) Oh, I love that. 2) I’m the opposite! I pray more than sing. I’m trying to add more singing into my life. 3) Setting a good example is so important! Love that you’re reading the Bible to your grandsons. Do you use a children’s Bible? We’re discussing sharing the gospel in an upcoming chapter–love that you’re helping people enter the kingdom of God.
I have several children’s bibles and try to tell the story and highlight some of the characters and events and then when I reread it to the boys ask them questions so can feel like they know the story. I worry so much about my family’s souls…I am the only Christian in my family and it is hard too be a good example and keep charging forward when no one else is with you.
That sounds like a great way to teach your children. Oh, being alone is hard. I was the only Christian in my family for awhile. Then my brother and parents made short-term commitments to Christ. My brother and sister are now walking with Jesus. I’m praying for you. May the Lord send his Holy Spirit to tug on the hearts of Frankie’s family members. May the Lord send others to talk to them. May the Lord bless Frankie with new Christian friends to support her and bless her. <3
#1 Paul’s deep love for the Lord, regardless the costs
#2 Lifts me to a place of joy and peace, for which I am so grateful. Brings contentment into my circumstance.
#3 Due to physical challenges of my husband, we both had to give up ministries in our church. As we had to accept this new phase of life, we pray that God will use us anew. He has done just that…whether it’s at the hospital, rehab center, or doctors’ offices He has prepared a path for us both to live our His call upon our lives so that others have taken notice that there is an inner peace and strength! To God be the glory! So many, young and old are yearning for peace.
YES, YES, and YES. Dianne, thank you for your testimony of God’s goodness and your journey embracing peace.
Even though Paul was in chains, in dire circumstances, he had joy and devotion to the Lord and to the church. In the midst of his suffering, he was concerned not for himself, but for others. This is teaching me to be content, to count my blessings instead of my woes; to look for ways I can bless others instead of focusing on myself.
Taking my cares to the Lord brings such peace to my heart. Many times while caring for my mom, my soul would just be burdened to the point I didn’t think I could continue. But I would find a quiet spot where I could be alone and undisturbed (usually the bathroom floor 😏) and I would just cry my heart out to God. He met me there every time, held me while I cried, and gave me strength to go back out and keep going. Listening to Christian music also every chance I get – lifts me up, encourages me, makes me feel so absolutely close to God.
I have worked with the children in church for much of my adult life but had to give it up while caring for my mom. She’s been gone a year now and I still feel kind of in limbo and unsure of what I need to be doing at this point in my life. I take care of 2 of my grandchildren (2 and 12) and try always to teach them and help them know the Lord and take them to church. Praying for direction and wisdom to know where God wants me next and faith to obey.
Thank you, Ronnie, for sharing. 1) Paul’s focus on others inspires me too. I’ve been quoting Philippians 2:3 nearly every day: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” 2) You’re on the other side of a very difficult season, a season for which you can expect great reward in heaven. Crying out to God honestly and listening to Christian music lifts and encourages and makes us feel close to God–yes! 3) May the Lord grant you peace and wisdom as he refreshes you and shows you where to serve next. May he fill you with joy. <3
Paul showed me that I am and we all are a work in progress–not one us us is perfect–so I need to love myself and others on our journey and see others as a gift from God to bring about growth in me.
I usually react first with fear, depression, anger and sadness. Then I pray and surrender to God. It takes a while but I eventually receive God’s peace as He helps me through it all by changing my perspective and giving me solutions.
I minister to 3 friends (who do not go to my church) and my cell group leaders where I attend church.
Hi, Diane! 1) Yes, we are all a work in progress, so we need to give grace to ourselves and to others. 2) I love that you keep praying and surrendering until you receive God’s peace and a new perspective. Persistence is prayer is so important. 3) Wonderful! Small groups are where we really get to know others and their needs so we can minister. Thanks for sharing!
I am loving the study! I got a little sidetracked on some word studies. I find it so easy to want to learn more. But I can bog down in the study and neglect to “apply” my new knowledge.
1- Paul was not depressed or complaining about his beating/imprisonment. He did not defend his Roman rights, but showed joy and contentment, in spite of circumstances.
Too often I let my circumstances define me.
2- huge conviction for me here. While I have a long playlist of Christian music that I love, I have been spending more time in other music. (Not “bad”music, but music that fills my head nonetheless). But I am finding as I listen to more Christian music, I recall it so quickly when I need it!
3- another conviction for me. I teach 1st grade Sunday School. I just finished VBS. But I had just read a devotion on looking at what chokes the word in my life the night before I studied this.
How does my ministry compare to social media? TV? My job? Hobbies? I think I need to pay a bit more attention to how I spend my time!
Looking forward to the next chapter!!
Hi, Barbara! I know what you mean–I can get sidetracked on details too. 1) YES–that’s amazing, isn’t it? He’s such an example to follow. 2) I’m trying to organize our songs into playlists. That’s quite a job, but it’ll be worth it. 3) You’re a Sunday school teacher! What a wonderful ministry you have. I went to Sunday school until I was perhaps 7. Then my dad told us everything we heard from our Sunday school teachers was a lie. I didn’t believe him. I didn’t understand everything I heard in Sunday school, but my last teacher gave me a little cardboard stand with a glossy painting of a smiling Jesus with children and sheep. That made a lasting impression. I am so thankful for Sunday school teachers! May the Lord continue to bless you as you serve in this foundational way to little children beloved by the Father.
Question 1.) what stood out to me was the fact that Paul was in jail, he still struggled, yet he pushed on to the goal – be anxious about nothing, yet letting God supply all our needs… including peace in the storms and joy! It was an encouragement with gentle reminders, not a harsh judging letter.
Question 2.) When I remember to respond with praise and prayer, my heart is much calmer and I am able to step back and respond with grace & love instead of anger and frustration to tough situations.
Question 3.) I teach Sunday school and love being in the 1st / 2nd grade class. I also help with youth group. I love to encourage others and help them seek truth, reaching out to ladies as God lays on my heart. I’m getting ready to be one of the Bible adventure teachers at VBS.
1) Yes–what an amazing example Paul is here. I’m so thankful for this letter. 2) Me too! 3) Hooray! What wonderful ministries. God is blessing you and blessing others through you. What joy there is in that.
It amazes me that Paul can have so much joy & encouragement for others in his circumstances.
When life is hard I find that praying & singing works to bring me closer to God. Then I’m more focused on Him, rather than my on problems. I am more joyful & better able to handle things.
I try to visit the sick in the hospital, send cards to those whom I can’t visit. I take meals, or help with a meal for friends who have illness, surgeries or deaths in their family, as I am able. I also teach 1st -3rd grade Sunday school & work with the children on Wednesday nights during the school year. Children are very important to me, as we are expecting our 12th grandchild. Of course I try to take as many as I’m able of my grandchildren with me!
Hi, Karen! 1) I’m amazed too! 2) I totally agree. 3) Wow–what a lot of ways to minister you have! Thank you so much for sharing–I’m sure you’ll give others ideas as they contemplate what God has for them to do.
What stands out to me most in Philippians is Paul’s tenderhearted encouragement to the brothers and sisters to “stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel” despite his own imprisonment and deprivation in the meanest of living conditions. Knowing of discord not only in the riotous society at large, but also among the believers, Paul somewhat surprisingly encourages – instead of admonishes! – the Church with a description of JOYFUL godly living to be attained through reciprocal sacrifice as an example of Christ’s lovingkindness here on Earth.
Suffering, depression, pain, and misery are but a few of the negative repercussions of the abject conditions in jail that Paul experienced, yet he set his sights heavenward, far above his difficult life situation. To do so is to focus on God, not on the suffering self. Prayer, and song, accomplish this by bringing to mind scripture and the promises of God despite temporal…and temporary!…disharmony.
My life is an offering to God, whether serving my family or interacting with, and encouraging, those I come into contact with in the community and, especially, online. My faith is evident to all, which is not something I take lightly, for first and foremost I consider myself to be an ambassador of Christ: “How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called the children of God.” At times, I wrestle with giving grace instead of the law, so Paul’s example holds special interest for me.
Hi, Patti! 1) Oh, I love your thoughts on this. 2) Indeed, our troubles here are temporal and temporary. Well put. 3) Yes–we are ambassadors of Christ, and we ought not take that lightly. I’ve wrestled with that too, and Paul’s example here is enlightening. Thank you for sharing, Patti!
Well Paul never gave up! He was amazing. Through good times and a lot of bad times he always showed his joy. What a guy to follow!
Music/ hymns are my go to every single day, whether at home on Alexa or in the car it always makes my day to listen and sing along. They are so inspiring. Right now I am co leading a Bible study at my church and learning a lot every year about the Bible and God which helps me in my life.
Hi, Kathy! 1) Yes, he’s quite an inspiration! 2) Agree! 3) Wonderful! Church Bible studies are a great way for women to make friends, support each other, and grow in the Lord. Thanks for sharing.
1-Paul is so focused on Jesus and not on his circumstances
2-Responding to suffering with prayer and praise helps me to remember that God is sovereign and in control. His plan is better than mine. That gives me peace and joy.
3-God has led me to volunteer at a pregnancy resource center, participate in a weekly moms in prayer group, and help people with resumes and college applications.
Hi, Virginia! 1) Yep! 2) I so agree. 3) Wonderful ministries! Thank you for sharing.
what I am doing with my time is creating a spiritual coloring book with scriptures with some of the pictures.
Thanks for sharing, Kim. So you’re an artist using your gifts to bless others? Nice.
What stands out to me in Philippians are the words “because I have you in my heart”, 1:7 I want to have people in my heart.
I have suffered deeply this last year. I sing, pray, and cry to God regularly. In spite of the profound grief I live with, I experience profound peace and joy because of God.
Well, I work at a church. I am the weekend volunteer coordinator, so I organize and support all of our weekend volunteers. I do consider that a ministry. I provide what they need, listen to them, feed them, pray for them, train them and just love them. And we do all that we do so that people attending church can leave their troubles at the door and enter into worship with a free heart, so I guess we minister to the church attendees as well.
Hi, Tammy! I look forward to seeing you tomorrow. Megan is setting aside the “ski lodge” at the back of the cafeteria.
1) Oh, love that: having people in my heart.
2) I am so sorry, Tammy. Crying to God is important and healing–the psalmists show us that.
3) That’s a lot of ministry! Wonderful. What a loving approach to your ministry too.
That Paul never waviered from his path that God sent him on. Even though he knew what was ahead of him with he continued to spread the joy and word of Jesus Christ.
My car has KLOVE on when I’m driving anywhere, it gives me peace and lets me connect with God during my drive (Also gives me more patience with the bad drivers, reminds me to mind my temper.) Also like to listen to gospel music while doing bible studies. It just brings an inner peace to my soul.
Attend a Bible Journaling group with friends of mine once a week, try to do bible study several days a week, and talk to God through prayers often.
Hi, Dawn!
1) That amazes me.
2) Christian radio stations are a huge blessing in that way. Many songs inspire peace.
3) Small groups are a terrific way to encourage others and receive encouragement.
1) God works in me to will and to act in ways that fulfill His good purpose for me – I don’t have to accomplish everything on my own.
2) Prayer & songs of God’s love and faithfulness, forgiveness & power help me trust that the hardship will not overwhelm me, that God is with me, and they restore my peace. Often a catchy tune will keep popping up in my head throughout the day – a great reminder of His continuing presence.
3) I’m finishing preparations to work as a literacy specialist with Pioneer Bible Translators in East Africa. I’ll be helping people learn to read God’s Word in their mother tongue language (which is not taught in schools).
Hi, Tami!
1) Isn’t that comforting?
2) I love when that happens. I’ve got “Hallelujah. Jesus Christ has set me free!” playing in my head right now.
3) Wow–that’s wonderful. Thanks for sharing.
WHAT STICKS WITH ME IS TO BE CONTENT, WHATEVER THE CIRCUMSTANCES
WE PRAY, GOD HEARS, THEN WE TRUST HIM FOR ANSWERS BECAUSE WE KNOW HE’S IN CONTROL AND LOOKING OUT AFTER OUR BEST INTERESTS, I’M THANKFUL AND HAPPY FOR THAT. AND I THINK SINGIN PRAISES TO THE LORD MAKES EVERYBODY BOTH HAPPY AND FILLED WITH GRATITUDE JUST BECAUSE HE IS WHO HE IS.
WELL, I’VE MOVED AND DON’T HAVE A CHURCH HOME YET, SO NOT DOIN AS MUCH AS BEFORE, BUT WITH THE TALENTS AND GIFTS GOD GAVE ME, I BEST LIKE TO USE THEM TO BENEFIT OTHER BELIVERS WHEN I CAN. TEACHING SUNDAY SCHOOL TOOK UP A BIG PART OF MY LIFE BEFORE I MOVED. TEACHING KIDS TO BE CHAMPIONS FOR CHRIST WAS MY MAIN FOCUS, BUT MANY A TIME I WOULD DO WEDDING FLOWERS AND CAKES FOR CHURCH FAMILY WHEN THEY REALLY COULDN’T AFFORD TO HIRE A PLANNER. AND I USED TO MAKE AND DONATE JESUS THEMED DIAPER CAKE W/ BIBLES TO THE HOPE PREGNANCY CENTER, A CHRISTIAN BASED ORGANIZATION IN THE TOWN I USED TO LIVE IN. COOKIN FOR PEOPLE WHEN THEY WERE SICK OR INJURED. I KNOW EVERYBODY HAS THEIR OWN DIFFERNT TYPES OF MINISTRIES, I THINK SERVICE HAS ALWAYS BEEN MINE. I HAVE TO SAY, THAT MADE ALOT OF PEOPLE HAPPY, BUT NONE MORE THAN ME. I LOVED DOING IT, GAVE ME SO MUCH JOY I COULDN’T SOMETIMES SLEEP AT NIGHT, THE JOY OF DOING IT JUST KNOCKED MY SOCKS OFF. I GIVE ALL CREDIT TO THE LORD WHO MADE ME AS HE DID..
Wow, Yvonne, what an amazing list of ministries you’ve served in! May the Lord bless you with a wonderful new church home.
I HAVE ANOTHER THING THAT I DIDN’T MENTION BUT I’M GONNA PUT IT IN BECAUSE IT’S A GOOD STORY. I HAD A BOY IN PRISON, AND I WOULD OF COURSE WRITE LETTERS AND SEND LITERATURE THAT WAS ALL ABOUT JESUS TO HIM. HE USED TO SHARE IT WITH OTHER INMATES AND THEY STARTED WRITING ME AND ASKING FOR WHAT THEY WOULD CALL “GOD STUFF”. SO I STARTED WRITING DIFFERENT BOYS TOO. BUT TO MAKE A LONG STORY SHORT, MY BOY GOT OUT YEARS AGO AND HAS BEEN DOING VERY WELL, FOR MANY, MANY YEARS NOW, AND ABOUT 3 OR 4 YEARS AGO, MY BOYS WIFES FRIEND SAW ON FACEBOOK SOMEONE TRYING TO LOCATE HIM. WHEN MY BOY CONNECTED WITH THE GUY THAT WAS SEEKING HIM OUT, IT TURNED OUT TO BE ONE OF THE BOYS THAT MY SON HAD SHARED HIS “GOD STUFF” WITH. THAT BOY WAS INTRODUCED TO JESUS IN PRISON. AND I KNOW…EVERYBODY ALWAYS FINDS JESUS IN PRISON, BUT THE DIFFERENCE WITH THIS KID WAS, HE DIDN’T LOSE HIM AGAIN THE SECOND HE HIT THE DOORS TO GET OUT. IN FACT THE BOY CONTINUED TO FOLLOW JESUS AND HAD BECOME A PASTOR AND HE WAS SEARCHING FOR MY SON BECAUSE HE WANTED TO THANK HIM AND LET HIM KNOW THAT IT ALL HAPPENED BECAUSE MY BOY SHARED HIS “GOD STUFF” WITH HIM. SOMETIMES NO MATTER WHAT OUR PERSONAL MINISTRY IS, WHETHER IT’S BIG OR LITTLE, GOD DOESN’T WASTE ANYTHNG, AND IT DOES MAKE A DIFFERENCE EVEN WHEN WE DON’T KNOW ABOUT IT.
WOW! What a testimony. Praise God!!!!
Hi,
One thing that stood out was for me to know that I haven’t yet acquired fullness that I’m pursuing, but I will run with passion into His abundance so that I may reach the purpose that Jesus Christ has called me to fulfil and wants me to discover.
I have recently been through a tough time with depression. Within that time I really struggled to listen to any praise music, read the bible or do any journaling. As I’m now coming through the other end I purposely put music on and try to make time for studying (hence why I’m only on chapter 2 lol), this has helped to lift my spirit and feel more positive about the today and future days. It also helps me to remember that God is with me no matter what 🙂
Oh, Ruth–I’m so sorry about your tough time. Praise God that you’re coming through the other end. May the Lord bless you and comfort you, and may he fill you with peace and joy.
Chapter 3 verse 21 reminds us that the Lord Jesus Christ has the power that enables him to bring everything under his control.
Singing hymns really opens the door to be able to experience joy in Christ! I started listening to nothing but praise music 🎶 about a month ago and it has saved my life along with my quiet times. I just try to encourage people on social media, but I just joined a church and I am going to find a place I can serve.
1) Ohhh, good verse.
2) So glad to hear that.
3) Wonderful! May the Lord bless you in this new church with both friends and ministry.
while reading Philippians I was reminded of the fact that joy and suffering usually go hand in hand.
When singing or playing music (of all kinds of Christian music) it puts my perspective back on God who is always with me and sustaining me no matter the circumstances
I am a pastor’s wife so my ministry is sometimes varied. At the moment I teach 3-5 graders in Sunday School and lead Mission Minded kids once a month. I visit with my husband and mentor young ladies.
Hi, Karla. 1) Yes, they do, don’t they? 2) I agree. 3) My husband was a pastor before he started teaching at a university. What wonderful ministries you have!
Paul kept his focus on God and was sharing the gospel with the prisoners. Paul prayed to God and worshipped him, sang songs of praise and thanksgiving, listened for God to speak to him, showed compassion for others and the jailer. He replaced negative thoughts with God’s truth and praise. This helped him to be content and have joy and peace. I manage a small apartment building. I look for opportunities to share God and have prayed with one tenant when she is going through difficult times. After having time to meditate on scripture, each day I write out a prayer from scripture and send it to my grown children, their spouses, and my grandchildren.
1) Good insights! 3) Those are wonderful ways to minister. Thanks for sharing, Marlene.
Hello Jen. 1. How Paul loves Our Lord and speaks with so much love. 2. Changes my heart and I start to feel, happier inside. Knowing my Lord loves me. and 3. I wasn’t doing anything, but wasting a lot of time. I do want to change that, and really focus more on taking time to read and study, this time around. I even brought my study book and Bible with me to work. I’m starting to read more, these last few days. Thank you for being so encouraging, to want to do more.
Hi, Alicia. 1) Yes, that’s amazing! 2) Yep! 3) I love that you’re bringing your Bible to work. I used to do that too (I work at home now). It opened up lots of conversations about God. The Lord will show you ways to minister in time. One of the later chapters has ideas. You can also read what some of the other women have written here. Thank you for sharing!
1) I am amazed at how joyful Paul is in expressing his thankfulness for the people of Philippi. While he yearns to be with Christ, Paul knows that the Lord wants him to remain where he is, spreading the Gospel. Also his desire for unity. 2) yes! After rejoicing and worshipping and prayer, even if I don’t feel like it at first, my joy and peace is refreshed and restored. The suffering may not go away, but I am stronger to face it. 3) I design and make costumes for CYT (Christian Youth Theatre). I also serve on the Board for our CYT affiliate. As I am making costumes, I pray for the actor who will be wearing the costume, prayer for the others on my team who I assign costumes to, and as a Board member, I pray for adequate resources and that we will use our resources wisely. I feel truly blessed that the Lord has given me this ministry! I am also currently leading a women’s group at my church with this study – discussing Week 1 tomorrow!
Hi, Cheryl! 1) Those amaze me too! 2) Same for me. 3) Wow–what a wonderful ministry. May the Lord continue to bless in all the ways that you serve him.
I love Paul’s concern and care and love for the people in Philippi and how he wanted them to keep growing in their love and knowledge of Christ…challenges me to love my family, Sunday school students, people I work with and pray for them passionately. I loved the Joy builders at the end…I haven’t sung to the Lord yet and want to do so, the first, next chance I have! Thank you and God bless you.
Hi, Jody! Yes, Paul challenges me too–constantly! But in a very good way. Thanks for sharing.
1) The thing that stood out for me in the overview was “I have learned, in whatever state I am to be content…’ NIV translates it “I have learned the secret…..” I want to know the secret too! And it’s clear that it’s a learned thing- as you pointed out in the first session- this will take practice!
2) If you’ve ever listened to Steven Curtis Chapman’s CD ‘Beauty Will Rise”, (highly recommend, written after his daughter’s death from a place of grief) he has a song about the faithfulness of God when one is ‘bleeding, scared, confused… weary’ and proclaims that he will declare His faithfulness both ‘when the sun is shining, and I will scream it in the dark’: God is faithful! Some years ago in a very dark, wilderness part of my journey I have vivid memories of doing just that- screaming in the dark that GOD IS FAITHFUL regardless of my very bleak, seemingly hopeless circumstances at the time. I didn’t feel immediate relief, it gave me some courage, strength to go on- but didn’t ‘fix’ it all, yet I know that choosing to declare His faithfulness in the midst, changed me- and the practice shaped me in ways that still are serving me today. Today- in a less intense season, turning to Him in worship/praise/thanksgiving- does immediately provide some relief and smooth out my lack of peace. It changes me 🙂
3) I have had periods of ‘all in’ kinds of ministry within a church body (Women’s Ministry, teaching Bible studies, prayer ministry, leadership ministry) and have then been pulled back into a sort of hidden season with Him. This was such a good question for me to think about and seek Him on! I support other ministries financially, and with prayer- I do Bible study with two other women, and I am focused on ministering within my own family. And there’s a new challenge with the ongoing pandemic, I’m hunkered down happily at home, working from home with little face to face contact with others. The thing He keeps whispering to me is that I have a box of cards I hardly ever use anymore, and that it’s time to pull them out and start there. In any case, it’s got me seeking Him on it, and being more intentional.
Loving this study, thank you for your work in it!
Hi, Judith. 1) Yes, you’re right: it’s learned and takes practice. 2) No, I don’t think I’ve heard that song. I will seek it out. Thanks for the recommendation. Love “Screaming in the dark ‘God is faithful!'” 3) Yes, everything has changed! What kind of cards?
Paul’s desire to further the gospel even through hardship. 2. It is an internal struggle to desire to pray and sing when I’m hurt or going through hard times. However, it helps to change my mindset.3. I am the volunteer treasurer/secretary for my church. I also lead ladies/girls Sunday school class and do some ministry with young ladies.
Hi, Brandi! 1) That amazes me too! 2) I agree. 3) That’s a lot of wonderful ministry. Awesome.
How positive and encouraging Paul is to everyone! He doesn’t complain and grumble, he is uplifting, grateful, and encouraging.
Yes, music lifts my soul always. With the anniversary of my brothers passing in a couple of days, I have been listening to Selah and other music that he enjoyed. I remember watching my brother sing in his church and it makes me smile. Music has always been a part of my family memories and I am grateful.
I sing and read the Bible with my grandchildren.
Those things strike me too. Selah’s music is beautiful. Singing and reading the Bible with grandchildren–how wonderful. BTW, on the book website under Extras, I’ve posted music to go with each chapter. The book website is http://www.DiscoveringTheBibleSeries.com.
For question one: Paul always finds joy. He looks for joy and encourages others to do the same. He says this brings contentment through Jesus.
For question two: Praying and singing in hard times lightens my heart and changes my head space. This gives joy, peace and rest.
For question three: I am involved in Bible art journaling. When finished my page I share it with family and friends.
Hi, Margaret. Great answers. Praying and singing help me through hard times too. I’d love to see your Bible art. We have a “Discovering Joy in Philippians” Facebook group that you can share it in, if you’d like.
1) Paul is delighted with what the Philippians are doing.
2) I love to sing. Singing praise songs increases my joy even more. When I pray to God I feel as if someone is listening to me and cares; this gives me peace.
3) I have made a spreadsheet list of people I have known in the past and present. I pray for salvation to those who do not know the Lord and for a bold witness for those who do know the Lord. The list is always expanding.
Hi, Karen–Singing and praying are essential to joy and peace! Your spreadsheet is a great idea. Thanks for sharing!
Hi, Jeane! I studied your book on Psalms with a group of women, and now I am studying Phillippians. I am not answering the questions, but I would like to share with you of what a blessing your books, knowledge, and experiences have been to me.
This week I have been praying for myself and others with the prayer from Paul in Colossians 1:9-12…I felt in my heart today an undoubted joy while praying with these verses. I have started realizing what a blessing is to pray with the Word… it has been changing my heart and perspective and I can not thank you enough for that. I have been a Christian since youth but I have never heard of praying on this way. Thanks for all the work you put in to do this ministry with your books. I am deeply grateful!
Thank you, Edith. Your words bless and encourage me. Thank you.