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BOLDNESS IN THE LORD
WEDNESDAY, JULY 6
Philippians 1:19-20

Ephesians 6:12-17

 

“I will praise thee

with uprightness of heart…”

 

BOLDNESS IN THE LORD
 
Difficulties often come unexpectedly into the Christian’s life. Sometimes it is extremely hard to see God’s hand in those things. Such, no doubt, was the case when the Apostle Paul had his ministry to the local churches interrupted by his imprisonment. But he saw certain good results as many of his palace guards came to know the Lord (Phil 1:12-13). But what about his own life and future? These were not clear to Paul. In this situation, he was much like Christians today. In times of trouble, we often do not know how the situation will turn out.
 
Although we often cannot see the end result of difficulties, we know that God is working in all things. Paul said, “…I know that this shall turn to my salvation…” (Phil 1:19). He was not speaking about salvation from sin here, but his deliverance through these times of trial. There was the possibility that God might release Paul from prison. On the other hand, he knew that no matter what happened, it would be for the best because God’s hand was upon him (Rom 8:28).
 
The Apostle was encouraged because Christians were praying for him. Surely, we can find strength as the fellowship of believers upholds us in prayer in times of trouble. And we should be faithful to pray for one another, especially in time of need (Eph 6:18). The Christian does not need to feel shame when suffering for the cause of Christ (2 Tim 1:8). Our Lord Himself was despised and rejected when He came to bring salvation to the world. So, we also may meet trials and testings as we endeavour to follow Him.
 
May we, like the Apostle Paul, face times of difficulty in our lives with great boldness, knowing that God will meet our every need. May we desire only that others will see Christ in us as we live joyfully for the Lord despite the problems of life (Phil 1:20).
 
THOUGHT: How can we help one another in time of trouble?
PRAYER: I thank Thee, Father, for always meeting my needs as I live for Thee.

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