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Author: Melodye Reeves

Philemon Day 2 Fellow Ones: Digging Deeper

February 14, 2023 by Melodye Reeves Leave a Comment

Philemon Day 2 Fellow Ones: Digging Deeper

Melodye Reeves

February 14, 2023

church,Comfort,Community,Encourage,Family

Discover the original intent of Scripture. Make good application to our everyday lives.
Become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

This DD Connects With "Fellow Ones"
Why Dig Deeper?

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philemon 1:1-2

1 Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother: To Philemon our dear friend and coworker, 2 to Apphia our sister, to Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church that meets in your home.
Read More Of His Words

The Original Intent

1) Who is writing this letter? (verse 1)

In the greeting of this letter, the co-authors are identified as Paul and Timothy. Paul, a pharisaical radical turned Christ-following radical (Acts 22:1-21), was a missionary and church planter. Timothy was the son of a Greek father and a Jewish mother. (Acts 16:1-3)

Paul referred to Timothy as his “true son in the faith“. (1 Timothy 1:2) Though he was young when he joined Paul in his travels, Timothy was a mature and devoted spiritual leader early in his life. He had been greatly influenced by the faith of his mother and grandmother. (2 Timothy 1:5)

Unlike the other prison epistles of Paul, this letter to Philemon is brief and deals with a single issue. It’s as if Paul jotted down a quick personal note to encourage Philemon regarding a situation with a friend, while including others who would be affected by his request.

Evidenced by the fact there are certain details left out of the letter that appear to be mutually known (verses 10-16), we can conclude there is a previous relationship and a familiarity which existed between the writers and recipient.

Bible scholars are uncertain about Paul’s location, though most believe he was imprisoned in Rome when he wrote to Philemon. Although there is no specific account of Paul being imprisoned in Ephesus, he mentions numerous unnamed imprisonments. (2 Corinthians 11:22-23) So, it is possible he could have been writing from somewhere other than Rome.

I agree with the reasons commentator Malick provides about his location being Rome. (bible.org) Since the themes and language used in his letters to the Ephesians and Colossians are similar, it was probably written between AD 60-62.

The Everyday Application

1) Who is writing this letter? (verse 1)

He has been given the titles “greatest missionary” and “greatest Christian” by many people through the years, but Paul’s transformation was humbling if it was anything at all.

Struck blind, he was forced to run straight forward into the grace of God Whose brilliant light pierced the darkness of his sin-wrecked soul! After his conversion, Paul was transformed into a man who would spend his life pointing to the One he became convinced was indeed the greatest, the only Savior, the Lord of all. (Acts 9:18-22)

One day, this very Paul who was a former legalistic Jew, found himself in Jerusalem where he was falsely accused of breaking Jewish law. As a hush fell on the angry mob who wanted him dead, Paul began to share his testimony of the Lord who brought him out of darkness and into light. What a sermon it was! (Acts 22:1-21)

Whether or not he was the greatest saint to ever live, we don’t know, but we do know he lived his life in surrender to the Lord who redeems all who call on Him for rescue. There have been many who have lived a life like Paul, even giving themselves as martyrs for the gospel of Jesus Christ. His example has inspired many to follow hard after Jesus with the same passion.

The Original Intent

2) Who is specifically addressed? (verses 1-2)

Philemon is personally addressed in verse 1 of the greeting. While he is not mentioned outside of this letter, because his slave, Onesimus, is mentioned in Colossians 4:9, we can build a bridge to evidence the relationship between Philemon and Paul.

In verse 2, we are introduced to other recipients: Apphia, Archippus, as well as the entire gathering of people meeting in the home of Philemon. Likely, Philemon was the leader of a house church in the city of Colossae. There is no direct reference to location, but a comparison of Paul’s letter to the Colossians with the Philemon letter gives us good reason to conclude this. Paul mentions he is with Timothy in both of his letters. (Compare verse 1 with Colossians 1:1-2)

Another similarity is found at the end of Colossians where Paul mentions several of the same people he addresses in Philemon.  (Onesimus and Archippus are mentioned in Colossians 4:9, 17) It is interesting to note how Paul writes to Philemon with a personal touch not evidenced in all of his letters.

Of the 13 letters Paul wrote, he called himself an “apostle” in 9 of them. Even when he wrote to the entire church at Colossae, he had a more formal approach, mentioning his apostleship and calling. Most Bible scholars leave little room for doubting that Apphia was Philemon’s wife and Archippus was also a member of the family. Many have good reason to believe Archippus was their son. (bible.hub, precepts.wordpress)

It makes sense to understand this letter was a personal plea from Paul to a friend and his family. Knowing that a church gathered regularly in their home, he extends his greeting and request to the church in their home. Paul had a deep love for all those in the situation, and he is hoping this very personal letter will bring about restoration if needed. (verses 9-16)

The Everyday Application

2) Who is specifically addressed? (verses 1-2)

Paul was writing with his friend to his other friends about another friend. These were all genuine friends in the faith.

The lyrics of an old song speak to his relationship with them, “And friends are friends forever if the Lord’s the Lord of them. And a friend will not say never ‘cause the welcome will not end.” (“Friends” by Deborah D. Smith / Michael W Smith) Paul had a request for some of his dearly beloved friends to welcome another friend he had come to appreciate and care about.

He greeted Philemon, Apphia, and Archippus with deep affection because he loved them and desired reconciliation and restoration to bloom. The church is a place where individuals are molded into one people, one family, and one Body through the Spirit of God by the blood of the Son of God. Where the Spirit of God dwells, there is a shared desire for harmony, unity, and shalom, an old Hebrew word meaning ‘nothing out of place, all is well, at peace’.

Once we enter into a relationship with God through His Son, Jesus, we gain brothers and sisters from all over the world. It’s a relationship intended to run even deeper than the one we share with blood relatives. Paul wrote about it in Philippians 2:1-5 and Ephesians 2:16-22.

Sister, aren’t you thankful for this example of sweet relationships formed because of Jesus? And it’s all found in a 2-phrase greeting in a letter to Philemon.

The Original Intent

3) What can we learn from the identifying words in this greeting? (verses 1-2)

Paul identifies himself as a “prisoner of Christ Jesus” in verse 1. While it’s true that the Jews had falsely accused him to the Romans in Jerusalem and had him arrested (Acts 21:27-32), Paul explains in other passages that he considers himself a prisoner for the cause of the gospel of Christ. (2 Timothy 2:8-10, Ephesians 3:1-2)

Paul had always been willing to suffer for the message he was called to proclaim regarding the death and resurrection of Jesus because he knew he was blind to truth and dead in his sins without it!

He gladly wore physical chains while he prayed his imprisonment would mean salvation to those near him. He also desired his message to spread through the entire Roman imperial guard and throughout the Roman world! (Philippians 1:12-14, Philippians 4:22)

Paul’s faithful companion was “Timothy, our brother“. Since Timothy had come to understand the salvation of Jesus through being taught the scriptures from childhood (2 Timothy 3:15), he was identified as a brother. He was a brother to Paul in the family of God. He was also a son. Paul had mentored him and been an example to him of faith and love; through this familial growth, he had become like a son. (2 Timothy 1:13)

Philemon was “a dear friend and coworker“ to Paul and Timothy. Noting that Paul requested a guest room at Philemon’s home (verse 22) and he previously had a slave (verses 15-16), it is probable he was more wealthy than most Christians in the day. He had become a valued partner with Paul in his gospel ministry.

As mentioned previously, Apphia “our sister” and Archippus “our fellow soldier“ were possibly members of Philemon’s family, or perhaps leaders in the gathered church who acted like family. (biblehub.com) Regardless of their blood relation, they were partners with Paul in the gospel, making them all part of a family in the “household of faith”. (Galatians 6:10-11)

The Everyday Application

3) What can we learn from the identifying words in this greeting? (verses 1-2)

Paul identified the people in his letter by using kind descriptions like “brother”, “dear friend”, and “sister”. Paul’s greeting identified the beautiful relationships we find in the family of God’s people. Those brought into the family of God through faith in Jesus are our “brothers” and “sisters” in Christ, our spiritual siblings.

Paul urges us to “love one another deeply as brothers and sisters.” (Romans 12:10) His note of encouragement to Philemon acknowledged his love for his friends and challenged them to demonstrate grace to a brother.

When you think of Paul identifying as a “prisoner of Christ Jesus” maybe you have some people come to mind who live by faith and submission to Jesus. I’m reminded of missionary and martyr Jim Elliot who may have been a modern-day Paul. Though he wasn’t jotting down a note for anyone but himself, his journal entry has made its way into the hearts of many who have figuratively chained themselves to Jesus to serve others. “One of the great blessings of heaven is the appreciation of heaven on earth – Ephesians truth. He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.”

So my Sister, sharing Paul’s words, I pray for us,
“For this reason I kneel before the Father from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named. I pray that He may grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power in your inner being through His Spirit, and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. I pray that you, being rooted and firmly established in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the length and width, height and depth of God’s love, and to know Christ’s love that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.” (Ephesians 3:14-19)

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Journey Study

I wonder, are we more concerned for our fellow ones than ourselves?
Have we considered who our fellow ones are?
Are we coworkers with Paul, Lydia, Aquila and the rest?
Have we become prisoners of Christ to do His kingdom work?
Or are we chasing our own glory?
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Posted in: church, Comfort, Community, Encourage, Family Tagged: church, family, Jesus, spirit

Surrender Day 14 The One We Seek: Digging Deeper

February 9, 2023 by Melodye Reeves Leave a Comment

Surrender Day 14 The One We Seek: Digging Deeper

Melodye Reeves

February 9, 2023

Christ,Discipleship,Faith,Follow,Sacrifice

Discover the original intent of Scripture. Make good application to our everyday lives.
Become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

This DD Connects With "The One We Seek"
Why Dig Deeper?

Read His Words Before Ours!

Luke 14:25-27

25 Now great crowds were traveling with Him. So He turned and said to them, 26 “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his own father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, and even his own life—he cannot be My disciple. 27 Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.”
Read More Of His Words

The Original Intent

1) To whom was Jesus speaking in verse 25, and why is this important to understand?

Verse 25 tells us “great crowds were traveling with Him.” It is important to note that Jesus’ teachings were not only directed to His disciples in this scene, but widely to the large crowds who were following along with Jesus. Crowds were often found “with” Jesus, even pressing in on Him at times. (Matthew 4:23-25)

People followed Jesus for all sorts of reasons: His miracles (John 2:23-25), because they were hungry (John 6:24-27), to accuse Him (John 6:61-64), and some because they genuinely believed Him (Luke 5:27-32).

As Jesus made His way to Jerusalem He understood His brutal death lay ahead. (Luke 13:33) His mission of rescuing those who would trust Him, carried a heavy price, His life. He wanted those around Him to understand there would also be a cost to believing Him and following Him, surrender. Surrender required submission to His teachings regarding the only way to God being through Himself.

Though He knew many would reject Him, Jesus responded with compassion by weeping over those lost in their sin. (Luke 19:41) He loved the crowds because He loves the individual people who create the crowds. He always saw them through His merciful eyes, and He always desired to draw them into a relationship with Himself. (Luke 13:34)

The Everyday Application

1) To whom was Jesus speaking in verse 25, and why is this important to understand?

The crowds following Jesus were much like fan-seeking crowds today. Some may read the Bible or attend religious meetings as skeptics, waiting to pounce on a perceived contradiction. Frankly, the prospect of them genuinely believing Jesus is quite low without a heart shift to begin authentically exploring the claims of Christ.

Other explorers of the Christian faith are less skeptical, seeing themselves as curious onlookers. They aren’t sure Jesus actually is who He says He is, but they sure would love to receive God’s blessings as long as it doesn’t cost them anything.

They listen closely for the ‘requirements’ Jesus presents. They watch even more closely those who have chosen to follow and wonder: Is this real? Are these people genuinely believing in Jesus? Is it worth it?

Eventually, many of these find themselves unwilling to make such a long-term pledge to Jesus Himself. Some encounter hypocrites who deter them or witness the hardship involved for those who truly follow Jesus. For many, the passages of Scripture announcing sacrifice and obedience are repulsive.

Though they may acknowledge a deep longing to be satisfied, they lack faith to see Jesus as the Supreme Satisfier. They miss the Counselor and Comforter found in the Holy Spirit whom Jesus promises for all who genuinely trust Him. This Helper indwells and empowers the believer to follow Him into the great unknown of the surrendered life! (John 16:7-13)

Sweet Sister, joining Jesus is a surrender to His purposes while knowing He is with us. It’s a step toward His wisdom and away from selfish desires. For many in the crowd, this call to relinquish control is a stumbling block, a hurdle, even foolishness. (1 Corinthians 1:22-24) In Proverbs 8:32-36 we see the beauty of answering the call to wisdom; it’s Jesus Himself.

The Original Intent

2) Most believe the Bible tells us to love everyone, including our enemies. So how are we to understand Jesus’ instruction in verse 26  to “hate” our families?

Making sense of whole passages is as valuable as translating specific words and interpreting sentences and verses. Like expanding concentric circles, we begin understanding the Bible best when first study the context of words within sentences within passages within books within the testaments within the whole Bible. (Got Questions)

This pattern of discovery is effective because the Bible is more than an instructional history book. The unique priority of the Bible is its one message about Christ which is woven through every page. Whatever the right answer is regarding our question around Jesus’ words to hating our families, we must never misinterpret who Jesus IS. Herein lies the crux of discovering the original intent of any passage.

Since Jesus is the One who perfectly fulfilled the greatest commandment to love our neighbor as ourselves (Mark 12:28-34), most certainly Jesus is not commanding us to do something out of harmony with what God has revealed. He is the One who perfectly fulfilled (Romans 5:6-8) the call to love our enemies (Matthew 5:43-48).

Therefore, we must dig deeper to define and interpret “hate”. Since Jesus affirms the 5th commandment which instructs us to honor parents (Mark 7:9-13), He is not commanding something different to the crowd (Luke 14:25). What He is describing is the cost of ultimate allegiance to Him.

The depth of allegiance to Jesus, when placed side by side with other loyalties, will look like the stark difference between love and hate. The New Living Translation of the Bible (NLT) offers a helpful interpretation. “If you want to be My disciple, you must, by comparison, hate everyone else—your father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even your own life.”

In the Hebrew Scriptures, the contrast between “love” and “hatred” was used to communicate preference or favorites. Exploring the translations of Deuteronomy 21:15-17 will shed some light on Jesus’ meaning in this passage. (blueletterbible.org)

The Everyday Application

2) Most believe the Bible tells us to love everyone, including our enemies. So how are we to understand Jesus’ instruction in verse 26  to “hate” our families?

Oh friend, do you cringe at this verse? It sounds so unlike the Jesus we thought we knew or that we’ve come to know! But we must not give in to doubt or despair, thinking He must not be as good as we thought He was.

While it’s true that following Jesus is a remarkable commitment, He has promised to provide for us everything we need to make the sacrifices He calls us to make. And what we need most is His grace. Grace to understand that Jesus is not asking the crowd to prove their love for Him by hating their families.

We know this because, as a God of love, His very reason for coming was to teach us how to receive and give love. (1 John 3:15-18, 1 John 4:7-11) Jesus calls us to is a love for Him that is so deep, all other loves pale in comparison.

The more I study this passage, the more I realize this wasn’t an indictment on those who loved their families. It was a shocking statement to those who loved themselves most!

In the previous verses, Jesus had shared a parable about people who tried to justify themselves. (Luke 14:16-23) In pursuit of their own plan, they missed the banquet and gave poor excuses. To follow Jesus is to hold very loosely the people we love and the plans we make, so we can run quickly to Him when He calls us!

The Original Intent

3) How does someone “bear his own cross”?  (verse 27)

To understand this phrase, we must learn the meaning of the cross in the time and culture of Jesus. Remember, He had not yet died on the cross. To the first hearers, the cross only represented a gruesome symbol of death.

Jesus’ audience knew all too well how the Romans reserved crucifixion for the worst criminals. It was a form of humiliation that led to a long and excruciating death. Here was Jesus telling them the cost of following Him equated this kind of suffering! It seems clear that Jesus intentionally uses a horrific symbol to get the crowd’s attention.

Following Jesus could cost them their very lives. (verse 26) Shocking words coming from someone who constantly drew a crowd. Clearly, these are not the words of a leader desiring to gain popularity.

Because Jesus was always full of grace AND truth (John 1:14), He simply couldn’t soften a hard truth just to keep followers. When Jesus’ ministry went from feeding crowds (John 6:5-14) to talking about eating His flesh (John 6:53-58), He lost some people! I guess so, right?! This kind of teaching was too much for many who had followed Him for miracles and blessings. (John 6:66)

His following-fan-crowds eventually turned into crowds of angry people calling for His death. Some disciples became afraid as they began realizing Jesus’ arrest and death could bring suffering for them. (Matthew 26:47-55) One of His closest friends denied him (Luke 22:54-61) and several went into hiding (John 20:19). The calling to become a follower of Jesus was one that should be considered only after becoming willing to accept a possible reality of losing your own life – the cross kind of death. (Pause VI)

The Everyday Application

3) How does someone “bear his own cross”?  (verse 27)

A cross symbol has lost much of its original meaning in today’s culture, as it has become many things—from a religious icon to a fashion element. Even though for many it is a symbol of faith, particularly the Christian faith, it still doesn’t always reflect the horrors of crucifixion and what a cross meant for those who watched loved ones die there.

To understand the teaching of Jesus, especially these difficult verses, we must be willing to search the Scripture and find Him. Friend, I am sure of one thing: Jesus wasn’t calling us to walk around with a self-pitying demeanor while bemoaning our hard life.

Discomfort, trial, and suffering color every human experience in one degree or another, but the distinction here is that Jesus is calling His genuine followers to a death.

Death of our hopes and dreams and possessions and people; yes, even our own lives if necessary. These are all to be held with open hands accompanied by a humble prayer of trusting surrender.

Jesus’ promise isn’t a guarantee of ease; it’s much better than that. Sister, the promise is Jesus’ presence WITH us! (Matthew 28:18-20) Yes, following Jesus may cost us, but not following Him costs us so much more.

In all my sorrows, Jesus is better!! Make my heart believe!
In every victory, Jesus is better!! Make my heart believe!
Than any comfort, Jesus is better!! Make my heart believe!
More than all riches, Jesus is better!! Make my heart believe!
Our souls declaring: Jesus is better!! Make my heart believe!
Our song eternal: Jesus is better!! Make my heart believe!
Jesus Is Better by Austin Stone Worship

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Journey Study

We are sinners who have not remained faithful to God, yet His love for us remains steadfast. While Gomer’s freedom cost Hosea a monetary sacrifice, Jesus offered Himself as the sacrifice to restore our spiritual freedom and restore our relationship with God. (Romans 8:1-4)
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Posted in: Christ, Discipleship, Faith, Follow, Sacrifice Tagged: cost, death, gain, reward, sacrifice, surrender

Surrender Day 5 The God Who Holds Us: Digging Deeper

January 27, 2023 by Melodye Reeves Leave a Comment

Surrender Day 5 The God Who Holds Us: Digging Deeper

Melodye Reeves

January 27, 2023

Faith,Hope,Identity,Legacy

Discover the original intent of Scripture. Make good application to our everyday lives.
Become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

This DD Connects With "The God Who Holds Us"
Why Dig Deeper?

Read His Words Before Ours!

Hebrews 11:13-16

13 These all died in faith, although they had not received the things that were promised. But they saw them from a distance, greeted them, and confessed that they were foreigners and temporary residents on the earth. 14 Now those who say such things make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. 15 If they were thinking about where they came from, they would have had an opportunity to return. 16 But they now desire a better place—a heavenly one. Therefore, God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them!
Read More Of His Words

The Original Intent

1) Who died without receiving what they were promised? (verse 13)

“These all died…” without receiving the things they were promised! (verse 13) That’s a challenging promise, isn’t it? Yet to many Bible students, this chapter of Hebrews 11 has become known as Scripture’s “Hall of Faith.” In other words, these became famous for their faith.

“These all” refer to those mentioned in the preceding verses: Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, and Jacob. (verses 8-11) THESE lived as exiled strangers by faith. The writer of Hebrews began this section by rehearsing the faithful lives of these Old Testament characters. (For more study on these characters, see Genesis 12-35)

In previous verses, the author had been stressing to his readers the importance of actively living a life of faith. (Hebrews 10:35-39) This chapter begins by defining faith (verses 1-3) and giving examples of what it looks like in real life. These faithful saints all continued to live by faith, believing God would fulfill His promises to them.

I can only imagine how often Abraham and Sarah revisited the promise God made to them in the decades of time between “promise given” and “promise fulfilled”. (Genesis 17:10-14) In fact, the writer of Hebrews, inspired by God (2 Timothy 3:16), gives a vivid description by saying these saints “saw them from a distance and greeted them.” They saw and greeted the promises they had received from a trustworthy God!!

Even though they died before receiving them, they trusted God would provide just as He always had. (Genesis 22:14) “The saints ‘embraced’ the promises. The Greek word signifies ‘salutes,’ as when we see a friend at a distance.” (Spurgeon, Blueletterbible.org) They were able to greet the distant promise with faith because they assuredly knew that their condition was temporary and their God was ever-faithful and trustworthy.

The Everyday Application

1) Who died without receiving what they were promised? (verse 13)

The term Hall of Faith is never used in the Bible. It is a title that has been used to describe Hebrews 11. It comes from the modern-day idea of the “Hall of Fame” which we find in the world of sports. One of the greatest honors of an athlete is to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. One of the remarkable things about it is the opportunity for fans to hear of the extraordinary athletes who they never saw play in their lifetime. In the same way, and of much more significance, is this chapter in the book of Hebrews.

God inspired the author to place these names on a list of people who HE wanted to be remembered for their faith. (verse 4) Reading the life stories behind these people, I’m shocked at the brokenness I discover. But God! He saw them differently. Oh, my sweet Sister, aren’t you glad? He has a perspective we don’t. He knew their hearts’ deepest desire.

Faith that is from God enables us to see the things not humanly revealed by our present experiences. This faith is perfected by God Himself. It’s not up to us, praise His glorious name!! We are broken people, but just like these, He sees and hears our cries for mercy. (Psalm 86)

A personal relationship with God begins when our eyes are opened to see His promises revealed in Jesus Christ. When we confess we are helpless to save ourselves, He welcomes our contrition and invites us to His heavenly dwelling, our eternal home. It’s a promise! (1 John 2:24-25) “O for the wonderful love He has promised for you and for me … Though we have sinned He has mercy and pardon for you and for me. Come home, come home … you who are weary come home.” (Softly and Tenderly, Will L. Thompson, pub.1880)

The Original Intent

2) What was the attitude of those who were seeking a different homeland? (verses 14-15)

The term foreigner in the Bible refers to a person who is just passing through. The verse describes them as “temporary residents.” These were willing to surrender control of their lives to God’s purposes and promises. They chose not to turn back to what they had left and known. Instead, they looked forward and believed God was faithful because He had proven to be so. Each of them needed to choose to trust God rather than go back to what they could see. This was the proof of their faith: continued hope amid the unseen. (verses 1-2) Their mantra had become “believing is seeing.”

We learn of the testing of Abraham’s faith in Hebrews 6:13-15. God had given him a specific promise after he obeyed God by offering up his son. Abraham trusted God to fulfill His promise by raising Isaac from the dead. (James 2:21-23, Genesis 22:16-18)

The author is prompting his readers to recall the history of faith in the Old Testament characters. He is also reminding them there is a history of faithfulness in their God. These could have returned to their homeland if they had been looking for an earthly inheritance. The living conditions “back home” were likely more developed than the place they found themselves wandering. I feel certain had they returned, their family and friends would have welcomed them with open arms. (Genesis 12:1-5)

But they didn’t go back because they were seeking a better country. A future one! There was a time Jacob fled to his familiar country, but he understood it was never to be his true homeland. (Genesis 30:25)

The Everyday Application

2) What was the attitude of those who were seeking a different homeland? (verses 14-15)

When you read the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) you realize that not all who saw Jesus’ miracles in person believed in Him. When you talk to neighbors or coworkers, you’ll find the same to be true. Not everyone who hears or reads the eyewitness accounts of Jesus’ miracles in the Gospels believe in Him. Many wonder if something that can’t be proven is true?!

The story is told of a pastor who met three young boys and asked them, “Do you want to go to heaven?” The pastor was shocked when one of them answered, “No, not me!” The perplexed pastor asked, “You don’t want to go to heaven when you die?” The boy answered much like we might answer if we were honest, “Oh, you mean when I die. I thought you were getting up a group to go today!” Some of us may share those feelings about Heaven.

Someday, it would be nice to go there. We may say we long for heaven, but we don’t necessarily wish to change our address today! The author of Hebrews reveals the discomfort the saints of old had with this world. They didn’t completely comprehend what the future promise meant for them, but they had learned to trust the God who made the promises.

We can too, my friend! We can have confidence that God made us for so much more than we can imagine! (2 Corinthians 5:4-8)

The Original Intent

3) Why was God not ashamed to be called their God, and what makes that reality so essential to this passage? (verse 16)

When God appeared to Moses, He said, “I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” (Exodus 3:5-6) Even though these were frail and sinful people, God was pleased to identify Himself with them. He had made them and envisioned a better future for them. (Isaiah 64:4-8) God’s mercy toward humanity, represented by these, is demonstrated in the many times He identified Himself as “the God of Jacob”, who was quite possibly the least exemplary of these! (Psalm 146:1-10)

God is not ashamed to be called their God, and “He has prepared a city for them!” (verse 16) The Creator God (Genesis 1:1) has a city crafted just for them, one unlike their temporary dwelling places. This one has foundations “whose architect and builder is God.” (verse 10) It is God who has worked for them. The pleasure of God was rooted in what He had accomplished.

The author of Hebrews explains in the next chapter how salvation began with HIM and would be finished by HIM, that is the LORD Jesus Christ! (Hebrews 12:1-2) “Therefore” signals the reason God is not ashamed. (verse 16) It was because these desired a better country, the city God had made ready for them. Their desire was pleasing to God, and they would be rewarded for their faith.

God had made a promise to them. He would certainly fulfill it. (Genesis 15:1) Their desire demonstrated their faith in His promise of a new city. (Revelation 21:1-4)

The Everyday Application

3) Why was God not ashamed to be called their God, and what makes that reality so essential to this passage? (verse 16)

Sister, do you SEE it?! Do you FEEL it? Do you KNOW it?! I hope you do. We can surrender our lives to Jesus knowing that one day it will be worth it. John writes in 1 John 3:1-3 “that when Christ appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is.”

Our hope in God’s promises reveal our faith in Him. The desire we have to one day look at the face of Jesus and spend eternity with Him MOVES the heart of God! Isn’t that incredible?!

Because of our faith, the faith HE has given us (Ephesians 2:8), He is preparing a place for us. He unashamedly calls us His own for He has forgiven us, redeemed us, and is shaping us to be like Him! Sister, it is our longing that points to the superior worth of what God offers compared to what the world offers.

While there are many questions we can’t answer about Heaven, we can know with certainty it will exceed all our imaginations and expectations. (1 Corinthians 2:9) The revelation to John talks of golden streets, walls and gates made of precious stones. (Revelation 1:1) God gave him a vision of indescribable beauty for us to gain a dim idea of how magnificent it will be.

The best part of Heaven, and what these understood, is that God Himself will live among His people. (Revelation 21:3) His glory will illuminate the earth as we dwell with Him. Hebrews says that these were not ever fully at home while they lived on earth. This is true for you and me, dear friend. We live on earth recognizing we will never fully belong and have yet to arrive at our destination.

But we live here with hope! This hope keeps us near Jesus, relying on His promise to hold us fast until the day He makes everything right and complete. (1 Peter 1:3-9)

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Journey Study

Will things go as we want?
Or will we be required to leave our comfort zones, surrender control, and trust the Lord with the results and outcomes?

When, like Abraham, our futures are unknown . . .
When, like Hannah, our souls are overwhelmed with anguish . . .
…will we surrender control to the God Whose plans are best for He sees the end from the beginning?
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Posted in: Faith, Hope, Identity, Legacy Tagged: faith, glory, hope, saints

Pause VI Day 15 Greet With Grace

January 20, 2023 by Melodye Reeves Leave a Comment

Pause VI Day 15 Greet With Grace

Melodye Reeves

January 20, 2023

Accepted,Gospel,Grace,Journey,Joy

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philippians 4:21-23

21 Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me send you greetings. 22 All the saints send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household. 23 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Read More Of His Words

Greet every saint in Christ Jesus … all the saints send you greetings! (Philippians 4:21-22)

Paul’s gospel is all-inclusive! Don’t you love that, sister? I just cannot ignore the intentionality of his mentions.

Emily Post was famous for writing about etiquette. She influenced the nation for years regarding what is proper, especially in writing. The apostle Paul was teaching us long before anyone knew of Emily Post. His letters included all the things that “the best letters” should. Under the influence of the Spirit: 1) Paul mixed the good with bad news, 2) he responded to questions asked or news shared in a previous letter, and 3) he always considered the recipients. (emilypost.com)

Post reminded her audience that good letter-writing included a positive salutation (greeting) and an encouraging closing (goodbye) in which the reader could relate. Paul did just that.

I heard someone say the gospel is not exclusive, but it is specific. And Paul was a master at making sure the reader understood this truth. I don’t know anyone who can preach a more concise gospel sermon in a simple greeting or goodbye. Paul is the GOAT for sure, and writing a good letter wasn’t even his goal!

Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, including the overseers and deacons. Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:1-2)

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. (Philippians 4:23)

When I read the letter to the Philippians it brings me such comfort. Even now, thousands of years after he wrote it and his original audience read it, Paul’s writing is relevant to us. Why? Because the grace of God is timeless, and it’s inclusive.

Sister, as believers, we are included in this marvelous grace of the Lord Jesus.

Grace and peace were offered to the Philippians. Grace and peace are offered to me. Grace and peace are offered to you.

Pause.
Receive this greeting into your souls this very day.

Today's Pause Challenge

1) Read Philippians 4:21-23 out loud twice. Explore deeper by studying some cross-references of the authenticity of Scripture. (Here are some references regarding the reliability of the letters of the apostles: 1 Corinthians 14:35, 1 Thessalonians 2:13, Romans 16:25-26, 2 Timothy 3:16, 2 Peter 1:20-21, 2 Peter 3:15-16)

2) Here is our last hand-crafted Spotify playlist for Pause VI!
Put this playlist on repeat this weekend and be reminded of the rich truths God has shown you this week in Pause VI! Rehearse the goodness and grace of God. Let your worship be an act of joy and thankfulness before your God!

3)
Memorize Philippians 4:4-5

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Day 14

Do you ever wonder why so many people suffer from lack of food, clothing, or money? In light of this passage, it’s especially difficult to believe God always provides when it appears to us that believers may not have everything they need.

“And my God will supply all your needs …”

Sweet friend, ponder this: perhaps it is because our greatest needs are not material.
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Posted in: Accepted, Gospel, Grace, Journey, Joy Tagged: gospel, grace, inclusive, Truth, welcome

Pause VI Day 14 Whole Life Generosity

January 19, 2023 by Melodye Reeves Leave a Comment

Pause VI Day 14 Whole Life Generosity

Melodye Reeves

January 19, 2023

Faith,Fullness,Provider,Security

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philippians 4:15-20

15 And you Philippians know that in the early days of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving except you alone. 16 For even in Thessalonica you sent gifts for my need several times. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the profit that is increasing to your account. 18 But I have received everything in full, and I have an abundance. I am fully supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you provided—a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply all your needs according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20 Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Read More Of His Words

Do you ever wonder why so many people suffer from lack of food, clothing, or money? In light of this passage, it’s especially difficult to believe God always provides when it appears to us that believers may not have everything they need.

“And my God will supply all your needs …”

Sweet friend, ponder this: perhaps it is because our greatest needs are not material. If you haven’t meditated on the previous passage (Philippians 4:11-13), I encourage you to pause now and look back. Spend a few minutes reading, re-reading, and prayerfully allowing these God-breathed words to seep into your soul. Paul mentioned his ability to be content in every circumstance. His secret was understanding that his joy wasn’t found in gifts themselves, but in the Giver.

“… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

Let’s reflect on these things from God’s perspective. He is a gift giver. Paul knew the supply of our needs comes through Jesus Christ, and his joy was found in that reality. The most important thing to Paul was not the gifts themselves. How beautiful is this kind of joy! What deep love Paul demonstrated through his own thankfulness for the spiritual reward they would receive because of their financial investments in his ministry. (verse 17) He knew God’s spiritual resources are endless.

Paul had faithful friends and supporters, but we know he did not believe Christ followers would never experience lack. Paul endured many hardships, including being without. (Philippians 4:12) What we are promised is God’s faithfulness to fully supply us with what we need to continue to serve and glorify Him. (2 Peter 1:3-4)

Paul’s secret was knowing God is trustworthy to be generous in every way we need Him!

Today's Pause Challenge

1) Be a scribe and copy the precious words of Scripture down word for word. Make space in your journal to write out Philippians 4:15-20 today. As you copy, lookup a cross reference or two as you come to them (they are the small letters next to certain words in your study Bible or online at www.biblia.com). 

2) Take time to read through all of chapter 4. Copy down onto notecards the verse or verses about Paul’s joy that inspire you or maybe even convict you. Share them with someone and why they touched your heart.

3) Continue to memorize Philippians 4:4-5

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Pause VI
Day 13

Paul had a secret.

But it was a different kind of secret. It was a “sacred secret” that wasn’t to be kept from public knowledge. It was his explanation regarding his previous instruction to the people in Philippi. He had stated and repeated: Rejoice … always.

“In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content.” (verse 12)
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Posted in: Faith, Fullness, Provider, Security Tagged: prayer, provide, satisfier, suffer, sustenance

Pause VI Day 13 Surprising Secret

January 18, 2023 by Melodye Reeves Leave a Comment

Pause VI Day 13 Surprising Secret

Melodye Reeves

January 18, 2023

Adoration,Gospel,Identity,Joy,Kingdom,Longing

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philippians 4:10-14

10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly because once again you renewed your care for me. You were, in fact, concerned about me but lacked the opportunity to show it. 11 I don’t say this out of need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I find myself. 12 I know how to make do with little, and I know how to make do with a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. 13 I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me. 14 Still, you did well by partnering with me in my hardship.

Read More Of His Words

Heard any of these expressions?

I’ve got a secret.
This is our little secret.
Do you want to know a secret?
The secret leaked out.

Or now at my age, I’ve asked this one when I observe ageless beauty, graceful grandparenting, or meaningful marriages:
What’s your secret?

Paul had a secret.
But it was a different kind of secret. It was a “sacred secret” that wasn’t to be kept from public knowledge. It was his explanation regarding his previous instruction to the people in Philippi. He had stated and repeated:
Rejoice … always.

“In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content.” (verse 12)

 Reflect for a moment on Paul’s location as he wrote this letter. From other verses in Philippians, we know he was in prison under house-arrest. Still, multiple times in his letter he has made a case for consistent, joyful living. Maybe he anticipated the Philippian believers feeling sorry or sad for him, and he wanted to assure them he had everything he needed. Because for Paul, knowing Christ was his single need.

Sisters, let’s take time to reflect on our own contentment. Do we miss much of the joy in our lives because we are wishing for something else we think someone else has? Maybe we have concluded that others have discovered the secret we’ve been trying to uncover. Is it possible we’ve lost sight of what we received when we gained Christ?

Paul had come to understand the essential, but often missing, element of knowing Christ. Though he had come to realize that the grace of Jesus equipped Him for every task (2 Corinthians 12:9), he had learned the secret sauce was the joy found in contentment. We can do it too, my friend! We can do all things through Jesus!

Today's Pause Challenge

1) Be a scribe and copy the precious words of Scripture down word for word. Make space in your journal to write down every word of Philippians 4:10-14 today. As you copy, lookup a cross reference or two as you come to them (they are the small letters next to certain words in your study Bible or online at www.biblia.com). As you write, consider the joy of Jesus! (Hebrews 12:2) He knew what was ahead of Him would be agonizing. He also knew the joy of obedience far outweighed the temporary suffering He would experience. Certainly, Paul considered Jesus as he meditated on the secret of his joy!

2) Choose one of these options to live boldly with authentic honesty in biblical community. As we grow deeper in God’s Word, the Lord designed us to share and grow with others walking alongside us.         

a) Take a photo of your journal time this week and share it, or share a quote from it.

b) Do a Facebook Live on the GT Community group and share how God has been working in you.   

c) Leave a comment here about it.

d) Share something God has been showing you in a comment at the GT Community Group 

e) Plan a coffee or lunch date with a friend and share what you’ve been learning and soaking in as you have hit Pause.

f) Write a note of encouragement to a sister who has been through the nitty-gritty of real life with you. Let her know how deeply she has impacted your walk with Christ.

g) For some of us, having a “2am friend” to build biblical community with is a new concept. If that’s you, this is an exciting, fresh place to be! Connect with our Facebook Community, send us an email, reach out to your local church body, seek out a small group and plug in! 

3) Continuing to work on memorizing Philippians 4:4-5

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Pause VI
Day 12

One day on a hillside near the Sea of Galilee, Jesus began teaching a group of people. What became known as The Beatitudes sums up Jesus’ teachings on earth. In essence, blessed are you if you need Me for you shall have Me. The reward and joy of the believer is Jesus! In the world as we know it, prosperity means bigger and better. It means accumulating more stuff.
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Posted in: Adoration, Gospel, Identity, Joy, Kingdom, Longing Tagged: Christ, gospel, need, source

Pause VI Day 12 In Real Life

January 17, 2023 by Melodye Reeves Leave a Comment

Pause VI Day 12 In Real Life

Melodye Reeves

January 17, 2023

Blessed,Freedom,Future,Joy

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philippians 4:4-9

4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5  Let your graciousness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. 6 Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is anything praiseworthy—dwell on these things.
9 Do what you have learned and received and heard from me, and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.

Read More Of His Words

One day on a hillside near the Sea of Galilee, Jesus began teaching a group of people. What became known as The Beatitudes sums up Jesus’ teachings on earth. In essence, blessed are you if you need Me for you shall have Me. The reward and joy of the believer is Jesus! In the world as we know it, prosperity means bigger and better. It means accumulating more stuff.

But the gospel meaning of prosperity is different! Paul had more than wishful thinking for the Philippians. He had an assured hope, produced by longing, for them to discover the abundant life of knowing Jesus. Life with Jesus had become real to him, and his desire was for them to know the reality of life with Christ.

Paul’s genuine concern is seen in his many letters as he calls for gospel unity. In the previous verses, he specifically mentions a disagreement that had occurred in the church at Philippi. (Philippians 4:2-3) Real life happens, doesn’t it? But, Sister, disagreements don’t need to squash our joy. With the help of mature friends and the work of Jesus, we can restore relationships and renew our joy. We can discover and display the gift of grace and graciousness. (Philippians 4:5)

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)

Always?! Who likes commands such as “always” or “never”? Usually not me. Unless it’s a reference to always experiencing my favorite thing and never experiencing a hard thing, these words feel so perpetually binding. What kind of joy is this anyway?! It’s essential that we realize that this kind of joy is a gift from God. It comes when we experience the delight of heaven in the real world of now.

The root word for “joy” in Greek is chara, closely related with charis for “grace.” Joy is both a gift of God and a response to God. Joy comes when we experience and relish the gift of grace through Jesus. Just like Paul, all believers live in an alternate reality once they’ve tasted the goodness of God. (Psalm 34:8) Joy is not seen only when circumstances appear favorable (i.e., a plastic smile), but it is sensed deep-down in the soul of a believer. “It is a well-being that abides in the heart of the person who knows all is well between himself and the Lord.” (preceptaustin.org)

So know this, dear Sisters: A life of joy is not only attainable, it’s sustainable through the Spirit of Christ. What do we get from our salvation? We get Jesus! What kind of joy does He give? The kind that sings about the goodness of God in the midst of real-life suffering and pain. (Acts 16:24-25)
This. Is. Our. Life.
… in Jesus.
Pause and dwell on these things, sweet Friend.

Today's Pause Challenge

1) Pull out your Bible and read Philippians 4:4-9 fully through 2 times. Go slow. Emphasize different words each time you read it. Savor the message and pray as you read. Write out the verses in your journal.

2) Each time you read it, write down everything that pops out at you, making special note of the word “peace.” When you’re finished, go back through and you’ll be amazed at the new things the Spirit is leading you into knowing about Him!

3) Pay special attention to the fact that these verses are written as commands from Paul. Note each instruction Paul gives. Consider how obedience in these areas is connected to knowing Jesus. Pray over how these can be more integrated into your life.

4) Memorize Philippians 4:4-5

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Pause VI
Day 11

Paul must have often preached to his own soul through his letters to the gathered believers in the churches he had planted. In Philippians 4:6, Paul tells the Philippians not to be anxious, but I sense his own anxious heart toward his friends. With tears, Paul prayed and pleaded for the believers not to be swayed by enemies of the gospel, those who would disrupt their fellowship or turn them from the truth about Jesus. (Philippians 3:18)

“… my dearly loved and longed for brothers and sisters, my joy and crown, in this manner stand firm in the Lord, dear friends.” (Philippians 4:1)
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Posted in: Blessed, Freedom, Future, Joy Tagged: family, hope, possession, rejoice

Pause VI Day 11 Stand Firm

January 16, 2023 by Melodye Reeves Leave a Comment

Pause VI Day 11 Stand Firm

Melodye Reeves

January 16, 2023

church,Peace,Relationship

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philippians 4:1-3

1 So then, my dearly loved and longed for brothers and sisters, my joy and crown, in this manner stand firm in the Lord, dear friends. 2 I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to agree in the Lord. 3 Yes, I also ask you, true partner, to help these women who have contended for the gospel at my side, along with Clement and the rest of my coworkers whose names are in the book of life.

Read More Of His Words

It was obviously important for Paul to know that the believers in Philippi were standing firm in their unified trust in Jesus. He had mentioned it at the beginning of his letter. (Philippians 1:27-28)

Paul must have often preached to his own soul through his letters to the gathered believers in the churches he had planted. In Philippians 4:6, Paul tells the Philippians not to be anxious, but I sense his own anxious heart toward his friends. With tears, Paul prayed and pleaded for the believers not to be swayed by enemies of the gospel, those who would disrupt their fellowship or turn them from the truth about Jesus. (Philippians 3:18)

“… my dearly loved and longed for brothers and sisters, my joy and crown, in this manner stand firm in the Lord, dear friends.” (Philippians 4:1)

Can you sense his concern for them, my Sister? They were his dearly loved and longed for family …. his joy and crown! He desired to express in his letter how deeply he felt toward them because he so desperately hoped they would understand how important it was to heed his words.

Sometimes we don’t know how to practically put into practice what we read in Scripture, but Paul provides robust application for us as he pleads with his (and our!) fellow believers. Paul encouraged them to specifically approach two women and urge them to reconcile for the sake of unity in the Body of Christ and to best reflect the God of unity to those outside the Body.

It was about the gospel. In light of the gospel message, and for the sake of the gospel message, we should strive to live at peace with one another. For this reason, as well as because the Triune God IS a God of unity, Paul stressed the importance of unity in his letter to the believers in Rome. (Romans 12:10-19)

One way believers contend for the gospel and stand firm in our faith is by demonstrating love for one another in a world where there is hatred and division. “Reconciliation” is a gospel term and action. It’s a picture of the good news in which we testify. Jesus “has committed the message of reconciliation to us”, and we ought to use the currency of our everyday lives committed to building reconciliation and being conduits of God’s righteous justice! (2 Corinthians 5:17-19, James 1:26-27)

Today's Pause Challenge

1) Read Philippians 4:1-3 a few times through and answer these 3 questions in your journal:

a) What do these verses tell me about God and His character?
b) What do these verses tell me about others and the world around me?
c) What do these verses tell me about me and my heart?

2) Close your time by praying for these truths about the gospel and its message of reconciliation to take root in your heart. Invite the Holy Spirit to remind you and teach you more about these things today. Be sure to write out any questions you have as you read; send us an email, we’d love to study with you!

3) Memorize Philippians 4:4-5

Tags :
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Journey Into Pause VI!

Paul’s words to the Philippians are chosen with deliberation and intention. He says he is actively viewing everything that once seemed important to him before knowing Jesus through the lens of now having Christ. From that perspective, he now considers everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ.
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Jan 2 - Jan 20, 2023 - Journey Theme #112

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Posted in: church, Peace, Relationship Tagged: peace, reconciliation, Trinity, unity

Pause VI Day 10 With Tears

January 13, 2023 by Melodye Reeves Leave a Comment

Pause VI Day 10 With Tears

Melodye Reeves

January 13, 2023

Pause,Service,Together,Unity

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philippians 3:7-21

7 But everything that was a gain to me, I have considered to be a loss because of Christ.
8 More than that, I also consider everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. Because of him I have suffered the loss of all things and consider them as dung, so that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own from the law, but one that is through faith in Christ—the righteousness from God based on faith. 10 My goal is to know him and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of his sufferings, being conformed to his death, 11 assuming that I will somehow reach the resurrection from among the dead.<br><br>

12 Not that I have already reached the goal or am already perfect, but I make every effort to take hold of it because I also have been taken hold of by Christ Jesus. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead, 14 I pursue as my goal the prize promised by God’s heavenly call in Christ Jesus.
15 Therefore, let all of us who are mature think this way. And if you think differently about anything, God will reveal this also to you. 16 In any case, we should live up to whatever truth we have attained. 17 Join in imitating me, brothers and sisters, and pay careful attention to those who live according to the example you have in us. 18 For I have often told you, and now say again with tears, that many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their end is destruction; their god is their stomach; their glory is in their shame; and they are focused on earthly things. 20 Our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly wait for a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ. 21 He will transform the body of our humble condition into the likeness of his glorious body, by the power that enables him to subject everything to himself.

Read More Of His Words

Paul’s words to the Philippians are chosen with deliberation and intention. He says he is actively viewing everything that once seemed important to him before knowing Jesus through the lens of now having Christ. From that perspective, he now considers everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ.

Paul had suffered significant loss, but compared to knowing Jesus, it was nothing more than a bunch of manure or smelly garbage containing rotten food; it had no appeal! Paul had a new perspective about what was once so valuable to him. He had a new focus and future, to know Christ and be conformed to His death.

“My goal is to know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death…” (Philippians 3:10)

Sister, the gospel (Jesus’ sacrificial death and literal resurrection) is not just one part of our lives. When we get to know Jesus, everything changes. The gospel applies to everything and every aspect of our lives. There really is no power of death to separate us from Love in Jesus when we know Christ and His power to kill our old sin nature along with its desires!

Twenty years before missionary John G. Paton went to the South Pacific Islands, a group of missionaries were killed by cannibals there. When Paton decided to go, a friend warned him of the danger likely awaiting him. Bluntly, Paton replied, “Sir, you are advanced in years now, and your own prospect is soon to be laid in the grave, there to be eaten by worms; I confess to you, that if I can but live and die serving and honoring the Lord Jesus, it will make no difference to me whether I am eaten by Cannibals or by worms.”

Paton had been drenched in the same grace of which Paul wrote. He understood what was and was not truly valuable. It brought him to tears as he prayed for the believers to know Jesus in the same way.

What’s the motivation for this kind of faith?
The power of the cross! (1 Corinthians 2:1-5)
What caused Paul to grieve?
The destruction and the destiny of the enemies of the cross. (Philippians 3:18-19)
Paul’s focus was no longer earthly but heavenly.

Sister, we have been given a promise. Like Paul, we look ahead toward our sure future.

“Our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly wait for a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ. He will transform the body of our humble condition into the likeness of His glorious body, by the power that enables Him to subject everything to Himself.” (Philippians 3:20-21)

Today's Pause Challenge

1) Read Philippians 3:7-21 out loud today, twice. Slowly. Linger over those words that stick out to you, slowing and listening as God’s Spirit speaks to your heart! Write out verse 12 on a notecard and place it somewhere you won’t miss its message. If you are able, add it to the verses you’ve been memorizing this week. Rehearse verses 12-14 this weekend.
 
2) This weekend, put Pause VI Week Two playlist on repeat and be reminded of the rich truths God has shown you this week in Pause! Know that we prayed for you as we prepared this study!

3) Read Paul’s farewell to the Ephesian leaders in Acts 20:17-31 to fully grasp how much Paul loved the believers and wanted them to know Jesus!

4) Continue your memory work: Philippians 3:13-14

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Day 9

Paul exhorts (biblically, that’s earnest advice) the reader to be aware of anyone who would lead them to add anything to their salvation. As if anyone could add anything! Paul certainly never preached grace for his own benefit! He was persecuted harshly precisely because he preached the truth that we can only be rescued from our death sentence earned by our sin if we solely trust in Christ alone through faith alone, without a drop of our own work. (Ephesians 2:8-9) He was demoted from respected teacher of the Law to imprisoned apostle. All for one reason: Jesus crucified! He had reminded them that everything else was useless for salvation. It was all Christ.
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And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14