Philippians 1:27 – “Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.”
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Background
Written by Paul with Timothy (v.1).
Addressed to all the saints in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons.
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Paul’s Thanksgiving and Prayer (vv.3–11)
1. Remembrance and Gratitude (v.3)
He remembered them and thanked God for them.
2. Prayer for All (v.4)
He prayed for them with joy.
Requests included love, knowledge, and growth.
3. Thankful for Their Fellowship (vv.5–7)
Reasons for fellowship: the Gospel.
Consistency of their partnership.
4. Paul’s Confidence (v.6)
Faith toward God working in them.
Confidence in them because of Christ’s work.
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Paul’s Prayer Requests (vv.9–11)
1. Love may abound more and more.
2. Grow in knowledge and sound judgment.
3. Approve things excellent (v.10).
4. Be sincere (Joshua 24).
5. Be without offense until the day of Christ.
Not sinless perfection, but walking in the Spirit.
6. Be filled with fruits of righteousness (v.11).
By Jesus Christ.
To the glory and praise of God.
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Paul’s Testimony of Suffering for Christ (vv.12–20)
1. His suffering led to the furtherance of the Gospel (vv.12–14).
Willingness to suffer.
His zeal to preach led to imprisonment.
His courage encouraged others.
His sincerity influenced others.
2. Others were made bold to speak the Word (vv.14, 20).
Without fear.
Recognizing fear as a hindrance.
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Application
The Christian life is marked by gratitude, prayer, confidence in God’s work, and perseverance in the Gospel.
Suffering can become a testimony that advances the Gospel.
True fellowship in Christ means striving together with one mind and spirit.
We are called to grow in love, knowledge, sincerity, and fruitfulness for the glory of God.
For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
(Romans 8:6)
Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
(John 17:17)
What should we do when there is worldliness in our surroundings?
I. Cleave to the Word
I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
(John 15:5)
A. The Word will:
1. Keep us away from sin — “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” (John 17:17)
2. Help us see our paths — “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” (Psalm 119:105,133)
Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me.
(Psalms 119:133)
3. Make us strong against temptation — Jesus overcame the devil by saying, “It is written…” (Matthew 4:4,7,10)
4. Give us wisdom in every decision — “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally.” (James 1:5)
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. (Proverbs 9:10)
5. Convict our lives — “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
II. Pray for One Another
1. It’s an expression of concern — “Pray one for another, that ye may be healed.” (James 5:16)
2. It is needed in the ministry.
Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you:(2 Thessalonians 3:1)
3. Prayers help solve problems — Example: Rhoda (Acts 12:12–16) when the church prayed and Peter was miraculously released.
4. Instead of criticizing your pastor, pray for the pastor — “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls.” (Hebrews 13:17)
Example of Hur and Aaron (Exodus 17:10)
5. Sometimes we tend to blame someone and fail to see our own faults and shortcomings:
Pray for ourselves — “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts.” (Psalm 139:23)
Examine yourself — “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves.” (2 Corinthians 13:5)
Don’t have just “a form of godliness but denying the power” — (2 Timothy 3:5)
If you want to strengthen others, you must first be corrected — “Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.” (Proverbs 27:17)
III. Be an Example
A. If you want others to follow, be an example.
An example of faith and giving — “Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35) (Bacoor)
2. An example of humility (Christ) — “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus… he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” (Philippians 2:5,8)
3. An example of concern for others — “Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.” (Philippians 2:4)
4. An example of conversation and purity.
Don’t put down others — “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying.” (Ephesians 4:29)
Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. (1 Timothy 4:12)
Why do these?
a) God wants to bless you — “The LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.” (Psalm 84:11)
b) God wants to use you — “Ye are the light of the world… let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14,16)
So many people fail to make wise judgments about their important decisions in life. No wonder there are so many divorces and broken families. Wrong judgments lead to decisions and actions that may not be the best or can have bad results. The Bible was given to guide us. It is important to study the Bible daily to grow in knowledge and wisdom. However, when pressed with difficult situations and facing important decisions, Godly counsel is a great help.
Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety. (Proverbs 11:14 KJV)
Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end. (Proverbs 19:20 KJV)
For example, when you have a limited budget and are planning to buy a used car, getting the advice of the best-experienced mechanic would be very beneficial. However, many people follow their feelings as they make important decisions in life and do not feel the need of godly wisdom and counsel.
He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding. (Proverbs 15:32 KJV)
WHY OUR JUDGMENTS FAIL
Because our judgment is… WITHOUT GODLY WISDOM
MANY PEOPLE REJECT KNOWLEDGE OF GOD’S WORD
Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets: She crieth in the chief place of concourse, in the openings of the gates: in the city she uttereth her words, saying, How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge? Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you. (Proverbs 1:20-23 KJV)
PEOPLE WHO DILIGENTLY SEEK FIND KNOWLEDGE AND WISDOM
If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding. (Proverbs 2:4-6 KJV)
Because our judgment is… WITHOUT UNDERSTANDING
A PERSON WILL NOT TRULY UNDERSTAND UNTIL HE APPLIES WHAT HE KNOWS IS RIGHT
Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding. (Proverbs 4:7 KJV)
HAPPINESS IS FINDING WISDOM AND ALSO UNDERSTANDING
Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. (Proverbs 3:13 KJV)
A WISE PERSON WILL KEEP ON LEARNING AND WILL LISTEN TO WISE COUNSELLORS.
A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels: (Proverbs 1:5 KJV)
TRUE REPENTANCE AND OBEDIENCE ARE NECESSARY TO UNDERSTAND MORE.
Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding. (Proverbs 9:6 KJV)
WISDOM IS THE APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE SO WHEN HE FEARS GOD, HE OBEYS AND EXPERIENCES THE TRUTH IN HIS LIFE.
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. (Proverbs 9:10 KJV)
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. (James 1:22 KJV)
Because our judgment is… WITHOUT SELF-EXAMINATION
IT IS BETTER TO JUDGE YOURSELF FIRST BEFORE OTHERS TO AVOID UNFAVORABLE CONSEQUENCES
The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way: but the folly of fools is deceit. (Proverbs 14:8 KJV)
For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world. (1 Corinthians 11:31-32 KJV)
EXAMINE YOURSELF IF THERE IS A WRONG ATTITUDE OF SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS OR SELF-PRIDE
And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. (Luke 18:9-14 KJV)
CONSIDER YOURSELF BEFORE JUDGING OTHERS.
Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? (Matthew 7:1-3 KJV)
Because our judgment is… ACCORDING TO APPEARANCE
JUDGE NOT ACCORDING TO APPEARANCE BUT JUDGE RIGHTEOUS JUDGMENT
Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment. (John 7:24 KJV)
Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts? (James 2:4 KJV)
MAN LOOKS ON THE OUTWARD APPEARANCE BUT GOD LOOKS ON THE HEART
But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. (1 Samuel 16:7 KJV)
Because our judgment is… WITHOUT RIGHT COUNSEL
Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety. (Proverbs 11:14 KJV)
THEY DO NOT SEEK GODLY COUNSEL
Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. (Psalms 1:1 KJV)
THEY LISTEN TO GOSSIPS THAN SEEKING THE TRUTH
Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth. As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife. (Proverbs 26:20-21 KJV)
SOMETIMES THE COUNSELLOR LACKS EXPERIENCE UNABLE TO GIVE THE BEST ADVICE
But he forsook the counsel of the old men, which they had given him, and consulted with the young men that were grown up with him, and which stood before him: (1 Kings 12:8 KJV)
For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counsellors there is safety. (Proverbs 24:6 KJV)
And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, The counsel of Hushai the Archite is better than the counsel of Ahithophel. For the LORD had appointed to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might bring evil upon Absalom. (2 Samuel 17:14 KJV)
Because our judgment is…BASED ON FEELINGS
YOU CAN BE DECEIVED BY YOUR FEELINGS
The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV)
YOU CAN MAKE A MISTAKE BY FOLLOWING YOUR FEELINGS
He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered. (Proverbs 28:26 KJV)
YOU HAVE TO LISTEN TO WISE COUNSEL AND APPLY THEM WITH UNDERSTANDING.
So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; (Proverbs 2:2 KJV)
Because our judgment is…WITHOUT KNOWLEDGE OF FACTS AND TRUTH
Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. (1 Thessalonians 5:21 KJV)
A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth. (Proverbs 14:6 KJV)
For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. (1 John 3:20 KJV)
For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth. (2 Corinthians 13:8 KJV)
He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.
(Proverbs 15:32)
We need instructions in our daily life to grow in wisdom and understanding. In all fields of work, whether he is a doctor, engineer, businessman, mechanic, or whatever work he does, he needs instruction. So, in our Christian life, we need instruction, how much more if you minister to others. We need instructions in order to live the Christian life, to find success, and to avoid failures. We also need instructions when we fail so that we can do it right and not repeat the same mistakes over and over again. We need instructions to motivate us to do right. But a person who does not want to listen to instruction is proud, thinking he knows all. He thinks he is a better person than others. It takes humility to listen to instructions. He who refuses instruction is depriving himself of the opportunity to learn and grow. Thus, King Solomon said, he that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul. How can a person gain understanding if he refuses instruction? People dislike criticism but if there is indeed a contradiction to one’s belief or ways, and he will not listen to correction, he will not improve and he will not know that there are errors in what he believes or does. You must hear first, and be willing to be reproved and you will get understanding.
The meaning of “Be watchful” is to be observant, careful, vigilant, and prudent. We are to be watchful because the devil is seeking for every opportunity to destroy lives.
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: (1 Peter 5:8)
We are to be careful with our thoughts, words, and actions.
The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness. The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good. A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit. (Proverbs 15:2-4)
Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. (Ephesians 4:29)
Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me. (Psalms 119:133)
Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression. (Psalms 19:13)
To the chief Musician, even to Jeduthun, A Psalm of David. I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me. (Psalms 39:1)
We are to be prudent.
A fool’s wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame. (Proverbs 12:16)
Every prudent man dealeth with knowledge: but a fool layeth open his folly. (Proverbs 13:16)
The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going. (Proverbs 14:15)
WATCH AND PRAY THAT YE ENTER NOT INTO TEMPTATION
Satan appeals to our flesh and our minds
Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. (Matthew 26:41)
Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak. (Mark 14:38)
We wrestle against the devil and spiritual wickedness
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (Ephesians 6:12)
Lust of the flesh, eyes, and pride is not of the Father.
Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.(1 John 2:15-17)
Satan tempts in times of afflictions.
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. (1 Peter 5:8-9)
Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all. (Psalms 34:19)
WATCH AND PRAY FOR YE KNOW NOT WHEN THE TIME IS
Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is. (Mark 13:33)
Pray always
Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man. (Luke 21:36)
Have fervent charity among yourselves
But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer. And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. (1 Peter 4:7-8)
Watch with all perseverance and supplication for all saints
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; (Ephesians 6:18)
Do you believe that your future matters according to your faith?
Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you. (Matthew 9:29 KJV)
Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men’s labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly, (2 Corinthians 10:15 KJV)
For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee. (Proverbs 23:7 KJV)
Do you believe that God has the best plan for your life?
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV)
The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (John 10:10 KJV)
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans 12:1-2 KJV)
Do you believe that many Christians missed God’s best plan for them because they do not seek God’s will in their lives?
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (Matthew 6:33 KJV)
Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. (Psalms 37:4 KJV)
Do you believe that Satan still tempts believers, misleads them, and brings destruction to their bodies and troubles in their lives?
To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. (1 Corinthians 5:5 KJV)
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: (1 Peter 5:8 KJV)
The consequence of right or wrong decisions affects one’s future.
And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons. (Colossians 3:23-25 KJV)
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO?
SEEK GOD FIRST
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (Matthew 6:33 KJV)
For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? (Mark 8:36 KJV)
O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. (Psalms 34:8 KJV)
And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first. (Matthew 19:29-30 KJV)
LEARN GOD’S WORDS
But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen. (2 Peter 3:18 KJV)
And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. (2 Timothy 3:15-17 KJV)
So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (Romans 10:17 KJV)
ATTEND THE SERVICES OF A BIBLICAL CHURCH REGULARLY
Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: (Ephesians 6:6-7 KJV)
And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. (Hebrews 10:24-25 KJV)
SUPPORT THE MINISTRY
For we stretch not ourselves beyond our measure, as though we reached not unto you: for we are come as far as to you also in preaching the gospel of Christ: Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men’s labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly, To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man’s line of things made ready to our hand. (2 Corinthians 10:14-16 KJV)
But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: (2 Corinthians 9:6-8 KJV)
Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed: And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine. His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed: Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury. Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. (Matthew 25:24-28 KJV)
DAILY SEEK GOD’S GUIDANCE THROUGH PRAYER AND MEDITATION
Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. (Psalms 1:1-2 KJV)
And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed. (Mark 1:35 KJV)
Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest. This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. (Joshua 1:7-8 KJV)
NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Psalms 119:105 KJV)
Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. (Psalms 119:11 KJV)
Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me. (Psalms 119:133 KJV)
SEEK GODLY COUNSEL
Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety. (Proverbs 11:14 KJV)
The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise. (Proverbs 12:15 KJV)
Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured. (Proverbs 13:18 KJV)
Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end. (Proverbs 19:20 KJV)
Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established. (Proverbs 15:22 KJV)
BE STRONG IN THE LORD TO OVERCOME SATAN’S TEMPTATIONS
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: (1 Peter 5:8 KJV)
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. (Ephesians 6:10 KJV)
This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. (Galatians 5:16-17 KJV)
The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV)
Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. (Proverbs 4:23 KJV)
TRUST AND OBEY GOD
But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith. (Galatians 3:11 KJV)
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV)
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. (James 1:22-24 KJV)
Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited. Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit. The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? (Jeremiah 17:5-9 KJV)
CURSE BE THE MAN…
THAT TRUSTETH IN MAN
It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man. (Psalms 118:8 KJV)
God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged. (Romans 3:4 KJV)
He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding. (Proverbs 12:11 KJV)
MAKETH FLESH HIS ARM
This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. (Galatians 5:16 KJV)
Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. (Zechariah 4:6 KJV)
Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayed for the king of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him: With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the LORD our God to help us, and to fight our battles. And the people rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiah king of Judah. (2 Chronicles 32:7-8 KJV)
Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD. (Jeremiah 9:23-24 KJV)
WHOSE HEART DEPARTETH FROM THE LORD.
The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV)
The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself. (Proverbs 14:14 KJV)
Incline not my heart to any evil thing, to practise wicked works with men that work iniquity: and let me not eat of their dainties. (Psalms 141:4 KJV)
BLESSED IS THE MAN…
THAT TRUSTETH IN THE LORD
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones. Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: (Proverbs 3:5-9 KJV)
Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done. And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. (Matthew 21:21-22 KJV)
WHOSE HOPE THE LORD IS.
That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; (Hebrews 6:18-19 KJV)
Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God. (Psalms 42:11 KJV)
HE SHALL BE LIKE
For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit. (Jeremiah 17:8 KJV)
A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved. (Proverbs 12:3 KJV)
The wicked desireth the net of evil men: but the root of the righteous yieldeth fruit. (Proverbs 12:12 KJV)
If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. (John 15:7-8 KJV)
Many people desire to be great before the eyes of men by exalting themselves. However, to be great in God’s kingdom is to be willing to serve God and be useful in the ministry. Serving God is not only worshipping but also supporting His ministry. Every believer must not only worship and hear the word but also share God’s message with others.
God has many ways of supporting the needs of His servants who preach His word. He touches the hearts of believers. Preachers must go by faith to preach the gospel believing in God’s ability to provide and sustain.
And it fell on a day, that Elisha passed to Shunem, where was a great woman; and she constrained him to eat bread. And so it was, that as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread. (2 Kings 4:8 KJV)
The meeting of Elisha and the woman at Shunem was not an accident. Rather it was a divine providence and appointment. God wanted to bless Elisha and the woman. It is God who leads His servants where they should go. He led Elisha to go to where there was a great woman. She was called great because she had a heart for God’s work.
Some would invite or offer you food for compliments, not sincerely. However, this Shunamite woman did constrain Elisha to eat. She was very generous and kind. It must be God who led and used her to provide for Elisha’s needs. Every true preacher must just go by faith believing in God’s provision.
And she said unto her husband, Behold now, I perceive that this is an holy man of God, which passeth by us continually. (2 Kings 4:9 KJV)
If God’s man will just go by faith, God can use anyone, even people you do not really know. The woman did initiate to help the man of God, but at first, she didn’t know that this man was God’s man. She didn’t even know that she was helping God’s servant. Somehow, God used her for a great purpose and as a channel of blessing. We really cannot limit God for His ways of providing for our needs are unlimited.
Later, she observed that this man who passed by them regularly was God’s man and righteous. She was right in her perception that indeed this man was a man of God. The Bible says that it is God who gives good pastors who shall teach you with knowledge.
And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding. (Jeremiah 3:15 KJV)
Good pastors feed you with true knowledge and understanding and they are a blessing to the people and churches wherever they go. But the bad ones scatter sheep with false knowledge and lies. The Bible says that God gives pastors for the edification of the church.
And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: (Ephesians 4:11-12 KJV)
Let us make a little chamber, I pray thee, on the wall; and let us set for him there a bed, and a table, and a stool, and a candlestick: and it shall be, when he cometh to us, that he shall turn in thither. And it fell on a day, that he came thither, and he turned into the chamber, and lay there. (2 Kings 4:10-11 KJV)
This woman was great because she was so supportive especially when she learned that this man was God’s servant. She was a great encouragement to her husband to support the man of God. They provided him a room, a bed, a table, a stool, and a candlestick. They provided the prophet a room to rest, sleep, and study.
And he said to Gehazi his servant, Call this Shunammite. And when he had called her, she stood before him. And he said unto him, Say now unto her, Behold, thou hast been careful for us with all this care; what is to be done for thee? wouldest thou be spoken for to the king, or to the captain of the host? And she answered, I dwell among mine own people. And he said, What then is to be done for her? And Gehazi answered, Verily she hath no child, and her husband is old. And he said, Call her. And when he had called her, she stood in the door. And he said, About this season, according to the time of life, thou shalt embrace a son. And she said, Nay, my lord, thou man of God, do not lie unto thine handmaid. And the woman conceived, and bare a son at that season that Elisha had said unto her, according to the time of life. (2 Kings 4:12-17 KJV)
When church members do care for pastors, it is God who will also bless them. It was an opportunity for the Shunamite to help the man of God, and to be blessed by the Lord. God cares for His servants and He cares also for those people who love His ministry. There are many promises in the Scriptures that the Lord will bless those channels of His blessings for the ministry.
Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: (2 Corinthians 9:7-8 KJV)
The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself. (Proverbs 11:25 KJV)
For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward. (Mark 9:41 KJV)
And when the child was grown, it fell on a day, that he went out to his father to the reapers. And he said unto his father, My head, my head. And he said to a lad, Carry him to his mother. And when he had taken him, and brought him to his mother, he sat on her knees till noon, and then died. And she went up, and laid him on the bed of the man of God, and shut the door upon him, and went out. And she called unto her husband, and said, Send me, I pray thee, one of the young men, and one of the asses, that I may run to the man of God, and come again. And he said, Wherefore wilt thou go to him to day? it is neither new moon, nor sabbath. And she said, It shall be well. Then she saddled an ass, and said to her servant, Drive, and go forward; slack not thy riding for me, except I bid thee. So she went and came unto the man of God to mount Carmel. And it came to pass, when the man of God saw her afar off, that he said to Gehazi his servant, Behold, yonder is that Shunammite: Run now, I pray thee, to meet her, and say unto her, Is it well with thee? is it well with thy husband? is it well with the child? And she answered, It is well. And when she came to the man of God to the hill, she caught him by the feet: but Gehazi came near to thrust her away. And the man of God said, Let her alone; for her soul is vexed within her: and the LORD hath hid it from me, and hath not told me. Then she said, Did I desire a son of my lord? did I not say, Do not deceive me? Then he said to Gehazi, Gird up thy loins, and take my staff in thine hand, and go thy way: if thou meet any man, salute him not; and if any salute thee, answer him not again: and lay my staff upon the face of the child. And the mother of the child said, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And he arose, and followed her. And Gehazi passed on before them, and laid the staff upon the face of the child; but there was neither voice, nor hearing. Wherefore he went again to meet him, and told him, saying, The child is not awaked. And when Elisha was come into the house, behold, the child was dead, and laid upon his bed. He went in therefore, and shut the door upon them twain, and prayed unto the LORD. And he went up, and lay upon the child, and put his mouth upon his mouth, and his eyes upon his eyes, and his hands upon his hands: and he stretched himself upon the child; and the flesh of the child waxed warm. Then he returned, and walked in the house to and fro; and went up, and stretched himself upon him: and the child sneezed seven times, and the child opened his eyes. And he called Gehazi, and said, Call this Shunammite. So he called her. And when she was come in unto him, he said, Take up thy son. Then she went in, and fell at his feet, and bowed herself to the ground, and took up her son, and went out. (2 Kings 4:18-37 KJV)
We must have great concern for the Lord’s work. Why are there many churches seemingly dying, and members have become worldly and spiritually sick. It is because of a lack of concern for God’s laborers and His works. We need revival!!!
My attention was caught by a kitten who was trying to enter a fence made of cyclone wire. Her head got entangled by the wires. She just cried due to the pain and couldn’t get her head out. So, I tried to help her by twisting her head gently, though she might be hurt just to get her head out.
There is a saying, “Sometimes it takes pain to make us change our ways”. We are hesitant to speak the truth to a person we care for fear that she or he might get hurt. But if you love someone, you have to tell him or her what is right. Love does not rejoice in wrongdoing.
Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; (1 Corinthians 13:6 KJV)
For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. (3 John 1:3-4 KJV)
Open rebuke is better than secret love. Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. (Proverbs 27:5-6 KJV)
There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health. (Proverbs 12:18 KJV)
Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. (1 Thessalonians 5:21 KJV)
But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light. Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. (Ephesians 5:13-17 KJV)
A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it! (Proverbs 15:23 KJV)
But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. (Ephesians 4:15-16 KJV)
Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way: and he that hateth reproof shall die. (Proverbs 15:10 KJV)
A scorner loveth not one that reproveth him: neither will he go unto the wise. (Proverbs 15:12 KJV)
Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee. Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. (Proverbs 9:8-10 KJV)
And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God. (John 3:19-21 KJV)
If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, (1 Timothy 6:3-4 KJV)
NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Psalms 119:105 KJV)
For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. (Proverbs 3:12 KJV)
Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty: (Job 5:17 KJV)
STEP BY STEP 