◄ What Does Philippians 1:12 Mean? ►

No matter what circumstances we find ourselves to be in and however problematic, distressing, or frightening our situation may become, we may be sure that every day that passes can be used by God for good, and every happening in our lives is an opportunity for the greater progress of the gospel.

On his first visit to these believers at Philippi, Paul was flung into jail, but his midnight songs of rejoicing resulted in the salvation of the jailer and all his house, by grace through faith in Christ.

And as he pens this epistle to the saints, overseers, and deacons of the Philippian church (from yet another prison cell), Paul does not cease to praise the Lord. Despite his physical afflictions and unjust imprisonment, he recognises that his circumstances: "Have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel of Christ. For we know that all things work together for good, to those that love God and are the called, according to His purpose."

This insignificant little verse is a glorious example of Christ's victory over evil and His omnipotent ability to bring triumph from terrors and tragedies. God can bring beauty from ashes and He can turn any obstacle in your life into a blessed opportunity, where the gospel of Christ can be preached and the name of Jesus lifted up.

God can change each insurmountable stumbling-bock into a divinely appointed springboard for the furtherance of the gospel of Christ. And He is able and willing to do this in the life of anyone who is humbly submitted to His leading and prepared to say: "Thy will be done in my life."

May we recognise that every day that passes is one more day of grace that God, in His long-suffering mercy, has permitted so that other lost souls may be brought into the kingdom of Christ, through their faith in Jesus Christ.

Let us in all things, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving and joy, present our souls and bodies as a living sacrifice to God, knowing that He will use the circumstances of our lives for the greater progress of the gospel, if we will simply let Christ rule in our hearts.

Heavenly Father, how I thank You that You are my God. No matter what situation I find myself in and whatever problems I may be called upon to face, it can be used by You for the furtherance of the gospel of grace. Help me to be joyful in my hope in Christ, knowing that You can use every circumstance of my life for the greater progress of the gospel. Help me to be persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, and learn to say: "Thy will, not mine be done." In Jesus' name, AMEN.