Sunday Morning Podcast September 14, 2014. Bro. Dave Goble.
TEXT: PHILIPPIANS 4:11-13
11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
As saints, we need to shine as bright lights in a very dark world. If the lights go out, it will be impossible for one to get help. As God’s child, people can’t see inside of you, but they can see the results by how you live, …if you live in the light. God has a visible Church. Pay careful attention to how you “live.” When others look upon you, do they see the light of Jesus in your life while in the midst of this world? Do they wonder about what you represent?
However I am presently in my temporal state, abounding, or in need, ..am I content? “I can do all things, through Christ which strengtheneth me ” (verse 12). Children, young and older adults, learn through the tests of life, the answer to the question, …”How much can you take?” They learn how though all things, …that they can be content. A key to help us, is found in submitting to God, so Satan will have to flee when we then resist him, (James 4:7). When we truly care, we will not allow ourselves to be ignorant of Satan’s devices, so that we can live holy. How much can you take? You think you can’t take anymore? God says whatever state, you can be content (Philippians 4:11) …this is key to being able to take, whatever God allows.
“Afraid” in your circumstances? Perfect love will cast out fear, (1 John 4:18). You will then desire to purify yourself from questionable desires of the flesh (James 4:8), so it won’t mar your soul. The Church needs to shine brighter in the midst of this dark world. To shine, we have to get to the point that “the world” (things that are fleshly minded), no longer attracts us. Then whatever tests God allows in your life, “you can take it!”
How much can you take? If you choose, it’s a challenge God will strengthen you for!