It is almost regrettable as we begin the book of Philippians to note that there are only four chapters. Especially as Paul introduces his letter with such encouragement and words of joy in the first 11 verses. Even as he changes his tone to one of reconciling his circumstances to the greater glory of God that will be revealed in Salvation, you can understand the depth of Paul's torment. He is encouraging others as he cites Job's despair in Job 13:16 as his own hope - "THIS WILL TURN OUT FOR MY SALVATION." (v.19) Paul is reaching out to other believers to minister to them, despite his own circumstances of imprisonment, testifying to the fact that he is even converting the guards around him. It is important that believers minister to each other because that is God's will. We just read this in Galatians 5:13 "For you were called to be free, brothers and sisters; only don’t use this freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but serve one another through love." Remember this as you ask the LORD how and who you can serve today. As disciples of Christ, our calling isn't just about receiving God's blessings. Not at all in fact. But it is about being the blessing God can use in the life of those around you. Share Christ's love today, regardless of your personal circumstances. God knows your needs. And He knows the purposes he has for you.

Paul opens chapter two with a call for the love, unity, and oneness of purpose in Christ-like humility and obedience to be demonstrated among believers. Verses 3-5 are excellent for committing to memory! “to put others' interests before your own.” He points to the ultimate example of humility and obedience in Christ Jesus, who willingly humbled himself, taking on the form of a servant, and submitted himself to the will of God, even to the point of death on the cross. As you read vv. 11-12, note Paul’s reference to Isaiah 45:23 where God swears by the highest authority – “Himself,” of what will occur after He commands Israel to turn to Him and be saved. “I have sworn by Myself, The word has gone forth from My mouth in righteousness And will not turn back, That to Me every knee will bow, every tongue will swear allegiance.” It is no wonder that Philippians is so widely held as an epistle of joy!

We also read of selfless service in two fellow workers in the gospel, Timothy and Epaphroditus. Their selflessness and dedication are meant to be examples for us to follow. Serving others and advancing the cause of Christ, even at great personal cost is what true Christian discipleship requires.

I don't know how to better put the picture into your heads than Paul does, so I will simply ask you to visualize the dogs of which you should beware! These are the evil workers who are right now working in our midst. But Paul speaks of a specific threat here. We are all aware of the world we live in and the Tic Toc, Instagram, Woke, Anti-church vocal minority (no longer a minority). That is not what Paul is talking about. He says to beware of the mutilation - or false circumcision. This is the threat that is pretending righteousness in your church. The mask will be one of credibility based on things they can boast about, just as Paul had the right to boast. Instead... "But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ." v.7 This is the mask taken off to reveal a true servant of Christ. The righteous will not have need to boast of what they do or have done, rather they will merely continue as Paul states in verse 14 "I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." The alternative is ugly. The indictment is in verse 19. Beware of the dogs! Read through this chapter asking the LORD for discernment for today.

What an amazing chapter of the Bible! Did you know this tiny, 23-verse chapter of the Bible has six verses that you probably already have memorized (or mostly memorized)?
4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!
6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is dignified, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, consider these things.
13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.
19 And my God will fulfill all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
In verse 15, Paul expresses directly to the church at Philippi how grateful he is for their generosity. It makes this almost feel like the book of Philippians is a thank you letter. What a precious reward for their generosity! Can you imagine how God responds in other ways to our generosity, when we are faithful in giving of all that we have? Our talents, our time, our efforts, our dreams, our ability to serve, our ability to worship, our ability to love, our ability to forgive? What else do you have the ability to give to the LORD? What do you think the LORD has available to demonstrate that He is pleased with your obedience? Stop and ask Him those questions - see what He says.