Scripture of the Week
OPENING SCRIPTURE: Philippians 3:14 KJV
(Context-Written by Paul during
his 2nd imprisonment in Rome, this letter was written to encourage
the believers in Philippi and to thank them for their love gift carried by
Epaphroditis. Also to address a few minor disorders in the church and their discouragement
about Paul’s long imprisonment. The church was also dealing with hostilities
from outside nonbelievers, the threat of Judaizers attempting to introduce
portions of the Law into the New Testament church, and the disunity that was
beginning to fall across the church in general. Paul’s letter also reflected
his attitude of joy and thanksgiving amid the storms of life he encountered).
14 I press toward
the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
“I” Press-What is my passion, goal, objective, purpose,
end game? Vision? “Where there is no
vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law (Word of God) happy is
he.” Proverbs 29:18.
Toward-Am I going forward in my
faith-walk? Is the love of God active in my heart/motives? Am I growing in
grace? Am I winning more than losing? Have I become the overcomer and more than
a conqueror that the Word of God says I am?
Is my mind Fixed on things above and not
on the earth?
Mark-The
finish line-The end of my physical earthly life. Did it make a positive
difference /impact in the lives of others? Did it inspire others to pursue
their faith-walk more fervently? Did I fulfill God’s purpose and will for my
life?
The Prize-My place
in heaven and any rewards or crowns from God that I may receive.
In 2 Timothy 4:6-8, Paul writes, "For I am already being poured out like
a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the
good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."
The High
Calling-
Is the complete restoration and functioning of
God’s original, initial design for each person, (through the New Birth/being
born again) mankind, and the creation as a whole.
The high calling is God’s purpose for leaving the
believer on the earth till today. The purpose is exclusively God’s kingdom
related.
Apostle Paul’s high calling:
Acts 9:13-16: 13 Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how
much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem:
14 And
here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy
name.
15 But
the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to
bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:
16 For I will shew him how
great things he must suffer for my name's sake.
Bulletin Notes
Trust in the Lord and do good;
dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Psalm 37:3 NIV
Psalms 37:3 is a reminder that our relationship with God is active and dynamic. Trusting in the Lord requires us to engage with Him daily, seeking His presence and guidance. Trust is not simply a mental agreement; it is an emotional and spiritual commitment to God that affects how we live our lives. We are encouraged to lean on Him during tough times, which can help us gain peace in turbulent situations.
When we look at the call to “do good,” it challenges us to consider how our actions impact the world around us. As Christians, we believe that embodying love, kindness, and generosity are reflections of God’s character. It teaches us that our faith should manifest in actions that uplift others. Doing good is not just for our benefit but for the collective good of our communities and the world. The more we choose to act with goodness, the closer we align with God’s desires for humanity.
Each action of goodness contributes to building positive relationships and an uplifting environment. It creates a ripple effect where one act of kindness inspires another, creating a community filled with love and support. We also remember that doing good is not limited to grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s the small, everyday things that carry the most weight, like offering a listening ear or helping someone in need.
In discussing “dwell in the land,” we are reminded that being rooted where God has placed us is significant. This concept can refer to our physical environment, relationships, job, or ministry. Staying grounded in who we are and where we are is vital, especially during challenges or transitions. It encourages us to engage fully with the life that God has given us, making the most of every opportunity to cultivate joy and gratitude. This presence enriches our lives and brings out the best in those around us.
The promise of “enjoying safe pasture” reflects a hope and assurance that comes from living faithfully. When we trust God and choose to act with goodness, we position ourselves to experience His protection and provision. This doesn’t mean that life will always be easy or free of troubles. However, it assures us that God will be with us, guiding and sustaining us through trials and difficulties. His presence becomes a source of comfort and strength in uncertain times.
Hall of Faith-Hebrews Chapter 11:1-40
This chapter is often called the “Hall of Faith.” One needs to come here often and linger long that your faith may become strong in the Lord, for in this Scripture we get a view of the history of Israel and the church, as it is written by faith, in the blood of the saints.
They worshipped by faith as Abel. They walked by faith as Enoch. They worked by faith as Noah. They lived by faith as Abraham. They governed by faith as Moses. They followed by faith as Israel. They fought by faith as Joshua. They conquered by faith as Gideon. They subdued kingdoms by faith as David. They closed the mouths of lions by faith as Daniel. They walked through the fire by faith as the Three Hebrew Children. They suffered by faith as Paul. They died by faith as Stephen, the first Christian martyr.
By faith they were patient in suffering, courageous in battle, made strong out of weakness, and were victorious in defeat. They were more than conquerors by faith. It is only by faith in the all- powerful Christ that you can by superior to circumstances, and victorious over all the evil forces that would destroy you. “Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.” The faith of the saints inspires us, but we look to Jesus as our example of faith.
