Read chapter in full: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Thessalonians+1&version=ESV

 

1 THESSALONIANS

Introducing 1 Thessalonians

Conventional wisdom tells us that nothing is certain except death and taxes, but for most of us that is not enough. Wouldn’t you like to be just as sure about where you stand with God? That’s what the Thessalonians were looking for, and Paul’s letters to them can help you find that assurance as well.

In the year A.D. 50, Paul entered Thessalonica while on his second missionary journey. He preached there for three weeks and was able to establish a church. However, a group of jealous Jews interpreted Paul’s message to mean that he was proclaiming another ruler in opposition to the Roman emperor, and he was forced to leave town (Acts 17:1-10).

Because of Paul’s concern for this young church, he sent his coworker, Timothy, to learn how the Thessalonians were doing. Timothy reported that the Christians’ faith remained strong but that they continued to be persecuted by those who had banished Paul. Timothy also brought back questions which Paul had not had time to answer during his short stay.

First Thessalonians was Paul’s first attempt at offering encouragement and answering questions—in fact it was probably the first of Paul’s epistles. It was written from Corinth only a few months after Paul had left Thessalonica.

In 1 Thessalonians Paul offers encouragement in four major areas: (1) How can I be sure that I will be with Jesus after death? (2) How can I be sure that Jesus is coming again? (3) How can I be sure that Jesus hasn’t forgotten me when I am suffering persecution? (4) How can I be sure that my life is pleasing to God?

Through your study of these letters, it is my hope that you will become sure of your faith and of your salvation and that, as a result, you will be able to “encourage each other with these words”(1Th 4:18).

http://www.ivpress.com/bible/1thess/

 

Chapter 1  (ESV)

 

Greeting

¹ Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy,

To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ:

Grace to you and peace.

 

The Thessalonians’ Faith and Example

² We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, ³ remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. ⁴ For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you,⁵ because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake. ⁶ And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit, ⁷ so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. ⁸ For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything. ⁹ For they themselves report concerning us the kind of reception we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, ¹⁰ and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.

 

Meditation

• For Christians, faith, love and hope are not just abstract ideas. We see in the example of the church of Thessalonica. The Thessalonian Christians were remarkable as a truly committed church. They not only received the gospel – they acted on it! They had faith that produced work, love that prompted labor, and hope that inspired endurance (v3). Their actions became an example and a source of joy for Paul and other churches who heard about what God was doing among the Thessalonians.
• A church should be a prominent and unmistakable shining light to the community in which it exists. What is the reputation of your church or cell group throughout the community? How can you help your church or cell group become such a shining light?
• How do you live out and act in faith, love and hope as a Christian in your everyday life?

 

 

Read chapter in full: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians+4&version=ESV

 

Colossians Chapter 4 (ESV)

Before you begin today’s reading and reflection, take a few minutes to create or find a “sacred space”. If you’re in your room, make yourself a small space with as few distractions as possible. Put aside any books, music, magazines; turn off your phone; get away from your email/facebook; turn off your music; etc.

 Now, pull out your Bible, and as you take some deep breaths, pray this short prayer: “Lord, help me be still and listen to your voice now and throughout this day and the next. Amen.”

(You can choose to read the whole chapter, or just the passage that is shown)

 

² Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. ³ At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison—⁴ that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.

⁵ Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. ⁶ Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.

 

Reflection

1. Chapter in a Glance: In this last chapter, Paul shows that witnessing involves prayer, living and speaking. His closing greetings illustrate many ways Christians help and encourage each other.
2. Expressing Christ in our lives is vital to an effective witness. But it is not enough.  The gospel is a message delivered in words, and authenticated by life.  Both word and life must be shared and accompanied by fervent prayers before the Lord.
3. How well are you in sharing the gospel? Which do you need to improve (in word or life) to become more effective in advancing the gospel?
4. Use verses 3-4 to pray for yourself, your church leaders and missionaries. Ask God to make you aware of every opportunity to encourage nonbelievers to consider Jesus.

Family Time (Begin this time by reading the passage above using a children’s Bible. If your children are younger, you may read vv5-6 only.)

Does your conversation reflect a Christ-like life? How you respond to others can help or hurt your witness. Paul said that our conversation should be “full of grace”. As a family, role-play these situations: your friend at school calls you an unflattering name; your neighbor criticizes your child’s behavior; your co-worker blasts your report. How does a Christian reply?

Proverbs for Today 23:1-4

¹ When you sit down to eat with a ruler,
    observe carefully what is before you,
² and put a knife to your throat
    if you are given to appetite.
³ Do not desire his delicacies,
    for they are deceptive food.
⁴ Do not toil to acquire wealth;
    be discerning enough to desist.

 

 

 

Read chapter in full: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians+3&version=ESV

 

Colossians Chapter 3  (ESV)

Before you begin today’s reading and reflection, take a few minutes to create or find a “sacred space”. If you’re in your room, make yourself a small space with as few distractions as possible. Put aside any books, music, magazines; turn off your phone; get away from your email/facebook; turn off your music; etc.

 Now, pull out your Bible, and as you take some deep breaths, pray this short prayer: “Lord, help me be still and listen to your voice now and throughout this day and the next. Amen.”

(You can choose to read the whole chapter, or just the passage that is shown)

 

¹ If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. ² Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. ³ For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. ⁴ When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

⁵ Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. ⁶ On account of these the wrath of God is coming. ⁷ In these you too once walked, when you were living in them. ⁸ But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth. ⁹ Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices ¹⁰ and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator. ¹¹ Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all.

¹² Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, ¹³ bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. ¹⁴ And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. ¹⁵ And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. ¹⁶ Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. ¹⁷ And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

 

Reflection

1. Chapter in a Glance: True spiritual reality is experienced and expressed in rejection of evil and a transformed character. We recognize Christ in the Christian’s life by the love and mutual submission expressed in every relationship.
2. Read the passage and consider these segments included in the process of putting on the new life.

• A new life is possible (vv3-4)
• Get rid of the old life (v5)
• Put on the new life (v12-14)
• Inner thoughts and behavior needed to put on new life (vv15-17)

3. Which part speaks to you most right now? Why?  How does that idea relate to the other parts?  How does it relate to love “which binds them all together in perfect harmony”?
4. Pray to God the part that speaks to you, personalizing it.

 

Family Time (Begin this time by reading the passage above using a children’s Bible. If your children are younger, you may read vv5-10 only.)

Do you enjoy putting on new clothes? Sometimes, they make you feel like a totally new person.  Paul talked about putting on a new self in much the same way one would put on new garments. He lists things you must get rid of to have new life in Christ.  What are they?  Why do you need to get rid of or not take up with these things?

Proverbs for Today 22:26-29

²⁶ Be not one of those who give pledges,
    who put up security for debts.
²⁷ If you have nothing with which to pay,
    why should your bed be taken from under you?
²⁸ Do not move the ancient landmark
    that your fathers have set.
²⁹ Do you see a man skillful in his work?
    He will stand before kings;
    he will not stand before obscure men.

 

Read chapter in full: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians+2&version=ESV

 

Colossians Chapter 2 (ESV)

Before you begin today’s reading and reflection, take a few minutes to create or find a “sacred space”. If you’re in your room, make yourself a small space with as few distractions as possible. Put aside any books, music, magazines; turn off your phone; get away from your email/facebook; turn off your music; etc.

 Now, pull out your Bible, and as you take some deep breaths, pray this short prayer: “Lord, help me be still and listen to your voice now and throughout this day and the next. Amen.”

(You can choose to read the whole chapter, or just the passage that is shown)

 

⁶ Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, ⁷ rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.

⁸ See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. ⁹ For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, ¹⁰ and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority. ¹¹ In him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, ¹² having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead.¹³ And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, ¹⁴ by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. ¹⁵ He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.

¹⁶ Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. ¹⁷ These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ. ¹⁸ Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism and worship of angels, going on in detail about visions, puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind, ¹⁹ and not holding fast to the Head, from whom the whole body, nourished and knit together through its joints and ligaments, grows with a growth that is from God.

 

Reflection

• Chapter in a Glance: Understanding life in Christ, and we won’t be taken in by substitutes for true spirituality.
• In v8, Paul criticized the Colossian false teaching that is not based on God’s revelation in Christ but the “misleadingphilosophy and empty deception based on traditions fabricated by mere mortals. These are sourced in the elementary principles originating in this world and not in the Anointed One (so don’t let their talks capture you)”.  (The Voice)
• In this passage, it was clear that the “elemental spirits of this world” refer to the rituals and rules of the Old Testament (vv16-17). The legalistic false teachers were probably advocating obedience to the Law of Moses for justification and sanctification.
• Silently reread verses 9-15, inserting your name every time Paul says you or us. How do these facts affect your view of yourself?
• Consider the fact that we are made complete in Christ. Let your prayer and praise to arise out of that fact.

Prayer & Journaling:

Stay with God for a little longer.  Continue to converse with God and listen to what he wants to tell you. 

If you have a prayer journal, as you listen to God, write down a few thoughts, questions, words, names, drawings, or anything that has come to your mind during this time.

 

Family Time (Begin this time by reading the passage above using a children’s Bible. If your children are younger, you may read vv6-8 only.)

Use the following as a guide for a Pray for Your Children time with the whole family.

Praying for our children and grandchildren:

Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord . . . Salvation is the greatest gift of God. Thank him for the salvation he has provided for your children. You will spend eternity with them. Let him know your deep gratitude. For children who have not yet trusted in Jesus, ask him to interrupt their lives and help them to see their spiritual helplessness and hopelessness apart from you.

. . . so walk in him, rooted and built up in him. . . Pray that God keeps your children developing as followers of Jesus. Pray that they always follow hard after him. Ask God to keep their lives rooted and established in order to withstand the inevitable challenges.

. . . and established in the faith, just as you were taught. . . Ask God to remind your children of all the things you taught them and are teaching them – the stories from the Bible, Scriptural truths, spiritual lessons, demonstrations of moving forward in trust. Ask God to remind them often of the things he has allowed you and is allowing you to teach them.

. . . abounding in thanksgiving. It’s easy for believers to continually make requests without slowing down to give thanks. Pray that God helps you instill in your children hearts of true gratitude and appreciation. Ask him to help you be an example of a person who overflows with thankfulness.

See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit. . . The information age provides many opportunities for error to be purported as truth. Pray that God will help you build into the hearts and minds of your children a “truth grid” that will not let error enter. Pray for grown children that they will not be deceived. (Adapted from: http://ronmoore.org/praying-for-our-children-and-grandchildren-colossians-26-8/)

Proverbs for Today 22:22-25

²² Do not rob the poor, because he is poor,
    or crush the afflicted at the gate,
²³ for the Lord will plead their cause
    and rob of life those who rob them.
²⁴ Make no friendship with a man given to anger,
    nor go with a wrathful man,
²⁵ lest you learn his ways
    and entangle yourself in a snare.

 

 

Read chapter in full: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians+1&version=ESV

 

COLOSSIANS

Introducing Colossians

“More! More!” urged our son John when I laid down the spoon after feeding him.

“Again! Again!” pleaded our daughter Sara as I turned the last page in the book I was reading to her.

Their cries for more pudding or stories are echoed in our culture’s search for more—more power, more money, more knowledge, more gadgets, more furniture, more clothes—more everything!

Books on self-improvement and success flood the market. Gurus gain eager followers by offering enlightenment, power and secret wisdom. Millions read horoscopes every day.

We cry for “more” not only in our society but also in the church. If only we had more wisdom, more maturity, more power, more faith. To fill these needs we attend seminars, go to concerts, hear celebrity speakers and read their latest books.

Colossians was written to Christians with similar longings. They didn’t know who and what they already had. False teachers urged them to add rules, ascetic practices and new philosophies to their Christian faith. Then they would have fullness of life. Paul writes to satisfy their desire for more by showing that they already had fullness in Christ.

Paul never traveled to Colossae, a city in the Lycus River valley about a hundred miles east of Ephesus and twelve miles from Laodicea. But somehow he met Epaphras, the man who had taken the gospel to Colossae, and Philemon, the host for the local house church. While in prison in Rome, Paul learned from Epaphras about the Colossian church and the pressures threatening their peace and stability.

These “faithful brothers” had not turned away from faith in Christ. Paul’s warm, friendly letter affirms their positive qualities and the changes in their lives. But he warns them against being deceived by “fine-sounding arguments” (2:4) or being captured by “hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and on the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ” (2:8).

The temptation to add ascetic practices, regulations or “superior knowledge” threatened their dependence on Christ alone for the fullness of life they wanted. The early Gnostics boasted about a spiritual “fullness” not previously experienced. They promised to complete and perfect the simple and elementary faith introduced by Paul and Epaphras. They emphasized a deeper knowledge of God, reserved for a special few, and an experience of greater power.

Colossians is Paul’s strongest declaration of the uniqueness and sufficiency of Christ, his full authority over all powers and the fullness of life he gives. Paul spells out the implications of this fullness of life again and again in the letter.

Like the Colossians, we are bombarded by longings for something more. But Paul thunders in Colossians, You already have fullness in Christ. Enjoy it! “For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and you have been given fullness in Christ” (2:9-10). The purpose of these quiet times is to help you discover the scope, reality and implications of the fullness of life you have in Christ. Paul’s letter to Philemon gives principles for mending broken relationships that apply to us as well.

http://www.ivpress.com/bible/coloss/

 

Chapter 1 (ESV)

Before you begin today’s reading and reflection, take a few minutes to create or find a “sacred space”. If you’re in your room, make yourself a small space with as few distractions as possible. Put aside any books, music, magazines; turn off your phone; get away from your email/facebook; turn off your music; etc.

 Now, pull out your Bible, and as you take some deep breaths, pray this short prayer: “Lord, help me be still and listen to your voice now and throughout this day and the next. Amen.”

(You can choose to read the whole chapter, or just the passage that is shown)

 

¹⁵ He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. ¹⁶ For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. ¹⁷ And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. ¹⁸ And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent.¹⁹ For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, ²⁰ and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.

²¹ And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, ²² he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him, ²³ if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister.

 

Reflection

1. Chapter in a Glance: Without Christ, Christianity is nothing. Paul offered prayers for the Colossians (vv3-14), and made a profound affirmation of Christ’s supremacy (vv15-23) and his living presence in the believer (vv24-29).
2. We often hear: “All roads lead to Rome. Everyone is eventually going to the same place. How can Christians say Jesus is the only way to God?”What is your response? 
3. In this passage, Paul adamantly declared Christ’s supremacy over every being and every idea. It is the central truth of Christian faith. Christ is Lord over all creation and is the reconciler between God and his creation.  Our lives are built upon it, shaped in every way by it.  Through Christ’s reconciliation we may be given back to God holy, blameless, and irreproachable.  God is the all-powerful ruler of heaven and earth.  God expresses his supreme power in this world in the person of Jesus.  God still expresses His supreme power in this world – through us! 
4. Silently reread verses 21-23, inserting your name every time Paul says you. What emotion, phrases, or thoughts come to you? What insight do you have about Jesus Christ, your new life in Him?  Talk to God, wait and listen to Him speaking to you.

 

Prayer & Journaling:

Stay with God for a little longer.  Continue to converse with God and listen to what he wants to tell you. 

If you have a prayer journal, as you listen to God, write down a few thoughts, questions, words, names, drawings, or anything that has come to your mind during this time.

 

Family Time (Begin this time by reading the passage above using a children’s Bible. If your children are younger, you may read vv15-18 only.)

Paul reminds us that Christ began the work of the church on earth. Today, believers usually carry on that work through a local church organization. How much do you know about your local church? As a family talk to a long-time member of the church who can tell you some of the church history.

Proverbs for Today 22:19-21

¹⁹ That your trust may be in the Lord,
    I have made them known to you today, even to you.
²⁰ Have I not written for you thirty sayings
    of counsel and knowledge,
²¹ to make you know what is right and true,
    that you may give a true answer to those who sent you?

 

Read chapter in full: http://www.biblica.com/en-us/bible/online-bible/niv/philippians/4/cuvs/

 

Philippians   Chapter 4  (ESV)

Before you begin today’s reading and reflection, take a few minutes to create or find a “sacred space”. If you’re in your room, make yourself a small space with as few distractions as possible. Put aside any books, music, magazines; turn off your phone; get away from your email/facebook; turn off your music; etc.

 Now, pull out your Bible, and as you take some deep breaths, pray this short prayer: “Lord, help me be still and listen to your voice now and throughout this day and the next. Amen.”

(You can choose to read the whole chapter, or just the passage that is shown)

¹⁰ I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. ¹¹ Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. ¹² I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. ¹³ I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

¹⁴ Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. ¹⁵ And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. ¹⁶ Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again. ¹⁷ Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. ¹⁸ I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. ¹⁹ And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. ²⁰ To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

 

Reflection

1. Chapter in a Glance: Paul exhorted the Philippian Christians (vv1-9), gave a most unusual thank-you note (vv10-20), and added final greetings (vv21-23).
2. Many people believe they can only be content and happy once they have reached a certain level of economic prosperity. How does their view differ from Paul’s secret of contentment? How is your view compared with Paul’s?  How can you become a better giver? Or a better receiver?
3. Richard Foster defines “simplicity” as “an inward reality that results in an outward lifestyle” (Celebration of Discipline). According to Paul, what is the inward reality?  How close are you to experiencing this in your life?  What can you do to encourage it?
4. Pray for Christian workers you know, that they would have the emotional and financial support they need.

 

Prayer & Journaling:

Stay with God for a little longer.  Continue to converse with God and listen to what he wants to tell you. 

If you have a prayer journal, as you listen to God, write down a few thoughts, questions, words, names, drawings, or anything that has come to your mind during this time.

Family Time (Begin this time by reading the passage above using a children’s Bible. If your children are younger, you may read v19 only.)

Have you thanked God for his many gifts to you lately? Take time to name the gifts God’s given to your family and each member.  Talk about the missionary your family is praying and caring for.  Have a discussion about sending them a gift package. 

Proverbs for Today 22:17-18

¹⁷ Incline your ear, and hear the words of the wise,
    and apply your heart to my knowledge,
¹⁸ for it will be pleasant if you keep them within you,
    if all of them are ready on your lips.

 

 

Read chapter in full: http://www.biblica.com/en-us/bible/online-bible/niv/philippians/3/cuvs/

 

Philippians   Chapter 3  (ESV)

Before you begin today’s reading and reflection, take a few minutes to create or find a “sacred space”. If you’re in your room, make yourself a small space with as few distractions as possible. Put aside any books, music, magazines; turn off your phone; get away from your email/facebook; turn off your music; etc.

 Now, pull out your Bible, and as you take some deep breaths, pray this short prayer: “Lord, help me be still and listen to your voice now and throughout this day and the next. Amen.”

(You can choose to read the whole chapter, or just the passage that is shown)

 

¹ Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you.

² Look out for the dogs, look out for the evildoers, look out for those who mutilate the flesh. ³ For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh— ⁴ though I myself have reason for confidence in the flesh also. If anyone else thinks he has reason for confidence in the flesh, I have more: ⁵ circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; ⁶ as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless. ⁷ But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. ⁸ Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ ⁹ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith— ¹⁰ that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, ¹¹ that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead.

 

Reflection

1. Chapter in a Glance: Paul had abandoned confidence in his own works (vv1-6) to trust Christ completely (vv7-11). All mature believers will follow Paul’s example and press toward this goal (vv12-17), eagerly awaiting Christ’s return and our transformation (vv18-21).
2. Paul had credentials: his family heritage, education, and zeal. These would have secured him a prominent place in the society.  But Paul’s encounter with Christ radically changed him.  When Paul met the risen Christ, his resume did nothing for him.  What mattered now was relationship with Christ.  Christians learn to recognize and abandon those things that must be counted as losses (possessions, credentials, attitudes, etc.) in light of our encounter with Christ (the gain of our relationship with Christ).
3. What are the things that you count “gain” but actually are “loss” and may become “weight and sin that clings so closely” (Heb 12:1) for your heaven-bound journey? How can you change your perspective and consider everything as secondary to knowing Jesus as your Lord?
4. Sing this song meditatively as your prayer of dedication to God – “All I once held dear” by Robin Mark. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09CzdMszUos

All I once held dear, built my life upon
All this world reveres, and wars to own
All I once thought gain I have counted loss
Spent and worthless now, compared to this

Knowing you, Jesus, knowing you, 
There is no greater thing
You’re my all, you’re the best
You’re my joy, my righteousness
And I love you, Lord

Prayer & Journaling:

Stay with God for a little longer.  Continue to converse with God and listen to what he wants to tell you. 

If you have a prayer journal, as you listen to God, write down a few thoughts, questions, words, names, drawings, or anything that has come to your mind during this time.

Family Time (Begin this time by reading the passage above using a children’s Bible. If your children are younger, you may read 7-9 only.)

Read today’s passage as well as the lyrics of this song.  Discuss what Paul meant by “gain” and “loss”.  Learn to sing this song together: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09CzdMszUos

Proverbs for Today 22:13-16

¹³ The sluggard says, “There is a lion outside!
    I shall be killed in the streets!”
¹⁴ The mouth of forbidden women is a deep pit;
    he with whom the Lord is angry will fall into it.
¹⁵ Folly is bound up in the heart of a child,
    but the rod of discipline drives it far from him.
¹⁶ Whoever oppresses the poor to increase his own wealth,
    or gives to the rich, will only come to poverty.

 

Read chapter in full: http://www.biblica.com/en-us/bible/online-bible/niv/philippians/2/cuvs/

 

Philippians   Chapter 2  (ESV)

Before you begin today’s reading and reflection, take a few minutes to create or find a “sacred space”. If you’re in your room, make yourself a small space with as few distractions as possible. Put aside any books, music, magazines; turn off your phone; get away from your email/facebook; turn off your music; etc.

 Now, pull out your Bible, and as you take some deep breaths, pray this short prayer: “Lord, help me be still and listen to your voice now and throughout this day and the next. Amen.”

(You can choose to read the whole chapter, or just the passage that is shown)

 

¹ So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, ² complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. ³ Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but inhumility count others more significant than yourselves.⁴ Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. ⁵ Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, ⁶ who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, ⁷ but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.⁸ And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. ⁹ Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name,¹⁰ so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, ¹¹ and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Reflection

1. Chapter in a Glance: Paul urged the Philippian Christians to imitate Jesus Christ who being equal with God yet whose incarnation and life are the supreme example of humility (vv1-18). He commended two men he was about to send to Philippi (vv19-30).
2. Here Paul encouraged Christians to look at the attitude of humility Jesus displayed, and adopt it in our relationships with others. Whatever basis we might have for believing we are better than others, all pale to utter insignificance when we see Jesus, willing to abandon His rightful claim of full equality with God, to not only become a human being, but even to die on a cross.
3. It’s no wonder that Christians have been considered weak, dull, too scrupulous or too cowardly, to make it big in the world. What the world doesn’t understand is that Christians choose humility not out of weakness, but out of strength.
4. How would things change if you consistently applied v v3-8 in your family? Church? Work?  Which do you need to work on now?

 

Prayer & Journaling:

Stay with God for a little longer.  Continue to converse with God and listen to what he wants to tell you. 

If you have a prayer journal, as you listen to God, write down a few thoughts, questions, words, names, drawings, or anything that has come to your mind during this time.

 

Family Time (Begin this time by reading the passage above using a children’s Bible. If your children are younger, you may read v4-7 only.)

Paul said you should become like Christ and be a servant. He said you should look out for others’ interests. Talk about how one can be a servant and not get hurt in the process. Do you know people whose needs you should respond to? Do you have a new neighbor you should welcome? Decide on someone you could visit and help in some way.

Proverbs for Today 22:9-12

⁹ Whoever has a bountiful eye will be blessed,
    for he shares his bread with the poor.
¹⁰ Drive out a scoffer, and strife will go out,
    and quarreling and abuse will cease.
¹¹ He who loves purity of heart,
    and whose speech is gracious, will have the king as his friend.
¹² The eyes of the Lord keep watch over knowledge,
    but he overthrows the words of the traitor.

 

 

Read chapter in full: http://www.biblica.com/en-us/bible/online-bible/niv/philippians/1/cuvs/

 

PHILIPPIANS  

Introducing Philippians

“Rejoice in the Lord always,” the author of Philippians exhorts us, “I will say it again: Rejoice!” Coming from most people, such words might sound trite and simplistic, but this is the apostle Paul speaking, a man who was not writing from a padded-leather office chair surrounded by books on how to be happy. On the contrary, he was a prisoner awaiting news that could result in his death. It isn’t hard to get behind the words of Philippians and see the tension and uncertainty there. Yet through all this we see the example of a man whose life is filled with joy.

As we study Philippians, we discover Paul’s secret: that a life lived for the glory of God will overflow with joy. What a message for our hurting world!

Philippi was an important city because it straddled the great east-west highway known as the Egnatian Way. The population of this city was cosmopolitan, being made up of Tracians, Greeks, Romans and a few Jews. In the center of the city was a large forum surrounded by temples, a library, fountains, monuments and public baths.

In 42 B.C. Antony and Octavia defeated Brutus and Cassius near Philippi. In honor of his victory, Antony made Philippi a Roman colony. This provided the Philippians with special rights and privileges as Roman citizens, and they responded with a great deal of pride and loyalty. Women enjoyed a high status in Philippi—taking an active part in both public and business life. Because of this, women also had important responsibilities in the Philippian church.

Paul founded this church sometime around the year A.D. 50, during his second missionary journey (Acts 16:12-40). From the letter to the Philippians we learn that this church was taking its share of suffering (1:29), it was in some danger of division (1:27; 2:2; 4:2), it may have been leaning toward a doctrine of perfectionism (3:12-13), and it was threatened by the teaching of Judaizers—a group which insisted that all Christians adhere to Jewish laws and customs. But despite these problems, Paul’s love for this church was obvious. He sincerely rejoiced at the progress they were making.

We know that Paul was writing to the Philippians from prison (1:12-14). Unfortunately, it is not clear which prison he was writing from. If he was writing during his imprisonment in Rome, then the letter can be dated sometime between A.D. 61-63. However, many scholars have pointed out that the conditions which Paul describes seem much harsher than what we know of the Roman imprisonment (Acts 28:16, 30-31). It could be that there was an earlier imprisonment not recorded in Acts. A good case has been made for Ephesus. If this is true, Philippians would have been written about A.D. 54.

Paul had several reasons for writing this letter. He wanted to explain why he was sending a man named Epaphroditus back to Philippi. He also wanted to thank the Philippians for the gift of money they had sent and to reassure his friends of his condition. Also, the news Paul had received concerning the Philippians made him long to encourage and advise a church he loved.

I hope that these quiet times will help you learn and apply Paul’s secret to joyful living.

http://www.ivpress.com/bible/phil/

 

Chapter 1 (ESV)

Before you begin today’s reading and reflection, take a few minutes to create or find a “sacred space”. If you’re in your room, make yourself a small space with as few distractions as possible. Put aside any books, music, magazines; turn off your phone; get away from your email/facebook; turn off your music; etc.

 Now, pull out your Bible, and as you take some deep breaths, pray this short prayer: “Lord, help me be still and listen to your voice now and throughout this day and the next. Amen.”

(You can choose to read the whole chapter, or just the passage that is shown)

 

¹ Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus,

To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons:

² Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

³ I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, ⁴ always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, ⁵ because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. ⁶ And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. ⁷ It is right for me to feel this way about you all, because I hold you in my heart, for you are all partakers with me of grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. ⁸ For God is my witness, how I yearn for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus. ⁹ And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, ¹⁰ so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, ¹¹ filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

 

Reflection

1. Chapter in a Glance. Paul thanked God and prayed for his partners in the gospel (vv1-11). He assured them that his imprisonment had been a good thing (vv12-26), and encouraged them to stand firm together (vv27-30).
2. Have any of your good friends ever told you what they appreciate about you? Have you ever listened while others prayed for you? If so, how do you feel when you are assured that others care for you?
3. As you read the passage, try to imagine yourself sitting with your whole church listening to this letter as if it’s written for your church.What emotion, phrases, or thoughts come to you?  Allow God to speak to you about what that word or phrase means and listen to what He has to say.
4. Take a few minutes to put Paul’s prayer into your own words. Use this to pray for your church and your group.   

 

Prayer & Journaling:

Stay with God for a little longer.  Continue to converse with God and listen to what he wants to tell you. 

If you have a prayer journal, as you listen to God, write down a few thoughts, questions, words, names, drawings, or anything that has come to your mind during this time.

Family Time (Begin this time by reading the passage above using a children’s Bible. If your children are younger, you may read vv3-4 only.)

Have you ever been in a new town or new school or new situation and felt you had no friends? Possibly at those times, you recognized how friends are a true gift from God. Paul recognized this as he wrote from prison to his friends at Philippi.  Have each family member write a letter to a friend, or a greeting card. Tell your friend you thank God each time you remember her or him. End this time by having one parent leading the family in thanking God for each of the friends mentioned.

Proverbs for Today 22:5-8

⁵ Thorns and snares are in the way of the crooked;
    whoever guards his soul will keep far from them.
⁶ Train up a child in the way he should go;
    even when he is old he will not depart from it.
⁷ The rich rules over the poor,
    and the borrower is the slave of the lender.
⁸ Whoever sows injustice will reap calamity,
    and the rod of his fury will fail.

 

Read chapter in full: http://www.biblica.com/en-us/bible/online-bible/niv/ephesians/6/cuvs/

 

EPHESIANS CHAPTER 6  (ESV)

Before you begin today’s reading and reflection, take a few minutes to create or find a “sacred space”. If you’re in your room, make yourself a small space with as few distractions as possible. Put aside any books, music, magazines; turn off your phone; get away from your email/facebook; turn off your music; etc.

 Now, pull out your Bible, and as you take some deep breaths, pray this short prayer: “Lord, help me be still and listen to your voice now and throughout this day and the next. Amen.”

(You can choose to read the whole chapter, or just the passage that is shown)

 

¹⁰ Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. ¹¹ Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. ¹² For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. ¹³ Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. ¹⁴ Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, ¹⁵ and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. ¹⁶ In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; ¹⁷ and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, ¹⁸ praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, ¹⁹ and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, ²⁰ for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.

 

Reflection

1. Paul examines mutual responsibilities of children and parents (v1-4), and of slaves and masters (v5-9). Paul reviewed the teaching of this letter, picturing the resources God had provided as a soldier’s armor (v10-20), and closes with brief greetings (v21-24).
2. Ephesians is a book about the church. In it Paul presented Christ’s church as a body, a family, and a holy temple. Each of these images calls for Christians to live together in love and unity. It is this dominant theme of the book that helps us understand the nature of the devil’s schemes, and the armor God has provided us to use in withstanding them. Simply, the devil’s schemes in Ephesians are his strategies for disrupting the unity of the church. And the armor of God is God’s resource for maintaining unity.
3. Use the following as you pray about your fight in spiritual warfare.

Dear God,

Keep my mind free from worry and from being controlled by my own plans.  Instead, I ask for the mind of Christ.  (Helmet of salvation)

Thank you that Jesus died for me that I can be righteous in your sight.  Please give me a heart of love like Christ’s. (Breastplate of Righteousness)

Please help me see the truth about myself and the situations around me through the mirror of your Scriptures.  (Belt of Truth)

Help me to be aware of the nudges of the Holy Spirit today everywhere I go and help me to be ready to share the gospel on these nudges.  (Shoes of Gospel of Peace)  

Help me to trust you and believe that you are always with me. (Shield of Faith)

Come Holy Spirit and empower me today.  (Sword of the Spirit)

 

Prayer & Journaling:

Stay with God for a little longer.  Continue to converse with God and listen to what he wants to tell you. 

If you have a prayer journal, as you listen to God, write down a few thoughts, questions, words, names, drawings, or anything that has come to your mind during this time.

Family Time (Begin this time by reading the passage above using a children’s Bible. If your children are younger, you may read vv16-18a only.)

 Help children to name each of the armor of God. Here is a video on the Belt of Truth: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDCvZhS0MHs  Discuss the importance of knowing God’s truth and putting other armor.

Proverbs for Today 22:1-4

¹ A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches,
    and favor is better than silver or gold.
² The rich and the poor meet together;
    the Lord is the maker of them all.
³ The prudent sees danger and hides himself,
    but the simple go on and suffer for it.
⁴ The reward for humility and fear of the Lord
    is riches and honor and life.