Philippians 1-2 | The Secret of A Contented, Gospel-Productive Life

Paul was writing to the Philippians from a Roman prison cell. Yet, it is one of the most joyful books he wrote. He speaks, in Chapter 4, of the secret of contentment he had discovered.

And, in Chapter 1, he speaks of his sure deliverance. He wasn't talking about physical deliverance. It was something more glorious.

Real deliverance is the ability to live fruitfully and joyfully in ANY circumstance! And this is how Paul lived.

The key to this deliverance Paul knew is found in Chapter 1.

A SETTLED PURPOSE

Paul had settled the issue of why he existed. His goal was for God to be glorified in Him and the gospel to go out through Him. Therefore, look at how he explains his circumstances.

"Now, I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel ... according to my earnest expectation and hope... that Christ will even now, as always, be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. (Phil. 1:12-21)

Believers were being encouraged by his imprisonment to "speak the word of God without fear" and the "whole praetorian guard" had heard about Christ (which was 5,000 men!) Nothing could make Paul happier.

If our goal is to be comfortable or known or wealthy, we are upset when these goals are not met. If it is for Christ to be seen through our lives, we can accomplish this even from a prison cell. Paul had discovered this secret.

THE BELIEVER'S PRAYERS

Paul also knew that people were praying for Him and that prayer can do anything God can do. He knew he would have real, spiritual deliverance because of the people's intercession to a faithful God on his behalf.

"For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayers ..." (Phil. 1:19)

THE PROVISION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

"For I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayers AND THE PROVISION OF THE SPIRIT OF JESUS CHRIST" (Phil. 1:19)

Paul knew that there was nothing that would come his way that was greater than the Spirit of God who lived within him. That he had all he needed because he had Christ and Christ had him!

Are you discontent? Worried? Upset with your circumstances? Then settle the issue of why you live! Live for His glory and the gospel and every circumstance will become a gateway to fulfill this goal. Then, trust in the power of prayer and the provision of God's Spirit to give you what you need to face the day.

Father, thank You for always giving me all I need. Help me to settle the issue of why I live. To turn from other gods and goals and live to magnify You in everything, which is the secret of contentment and joy.