Steven A. Bush - November 4, 2017
With Thanksgiving and Joy
The Apostle Paul held dear the Church in Philippi. His letter to them is filled with expressions of gratitude and joy. He scolds them little and praises them much. He loves these folks and they love him back. Here's some choice verses from Philippians 1: V3: "Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God..." V6-7a: "And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue His work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. So it is right that I should feel as I do about all of you, for you have a special place in my heart." V9: "I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding." And finally V11: "May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation--the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ--for this will bring much glory and praise to God." (NLT) But what makes these verses even more spectacular is they weren't only meant for our brothers and sisters in Philippi 2,000 years ago, they are also relative for us in the here and now. We are loved in such a way by Christ and should love one another in like manner. And our appropriate response? Thanksgiving and Joy!