Daily Scripture‘I think it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus… in order that you may rejoice at seeing him again, and that I may be less anxious. Welcome him then in the Lord with all joy, and honour such people, because he came close to death for the work of Christ, risking his life’. (Philippians 2.25-28)Daily ReflectionSt Paul writes that he hopes to “be less anxious” about the situation in Philippi. He is sending the friend who has been seriously ill, “close to death for the work of Christ, risking his life”. We have become very aware in the pandemic just how many people are risking their lives out of concern for others (the work of Christ). Later in this letter Paul writes “Rejoice always... do not worry about anything… By prayer and thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God, and the peace of God which passes all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”. We, like Paul, can be anxious for those we care about and at the same time be at peace. David Harmsworth
Daily Scripture:‘Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others.’ (Philippians 2:3)Daily Reflection: Words from the Apostle Paul to the early church in Philippi. He is encouraging us to lay aside selfishness and thoughts just for ourselves, and to treat others – all others – with respect and decency. That is something, I hope, we all try to do. But, if we are honest with ourselves, it is a tough ask; but we know that our community would be so much better if we all acted in this way. Jesus was the true example of how to live life in this way. Paul ups the ante even more though in the next sentence: “Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus”. Wow; tough! But he closes with encouraging words, “For it is God who is at work in you.” Ask God to help you help others. Try it today.Revd David
Daily Scripture:'for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will result in my deliverance.' (Philippians 1:19)Daily Reflection:Can we change difficult situations in our lives? YES! Paul gives us the answer above, and it is PRAYER. Prayer is the catalyst that starts heavenly cogs in motion, that invokes the power of God’s Holy Spirit, and brings blessing into our lives, not just physically, but more importantly, spiritually, by increasing our faith in Him. Faith is a big part of prayer. Have you ever wondered why God often waits until the 11th hour to change your particular situation? It is because He knows that the more you persevere in faith, the more spiritually strong you will become, and because of this strength you will be a beacon of light and hope to others who are struggling. Prayer is the beginning, middle and end of faith. Never give up praying.Vicki Young
