Even In Chains, We Can Advance God's Word

Philipians 1:12-14
12 Now I want you to know, brother, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly.

Paul was able to be most effective when he was in chains in prison. He never let his circumstances have any effect on his perseverence in bringing the word of God to the lost and broken hearted. Paul was not ever afraid of death, for Jesus Christ had redeemed him, and since he had no fear, such freedom gave him an everlasting and eternal joy that could never be quenched.

In our current times we live in, we are so in desperate need of more people like apostle Paul. Many Christians have seemed to blend in with the world, not wanting to cause any commotion or disturbance in day to day to activities. But we need to live in complete contrast to the world and it's values because it is what Jesus calls us to do. Asking your neighbor if they know Christ, asking the person next to you in the store if they are saved, taking the time to sit down and listen and show compassion to a homeless person in need, as well as other acts that show the love of Christ; this is what Christ yearns for our lives, in being completely sold out for him.

Shake up this world. Speak up for Christ. Spread God's word no matter what circumstance may come your way. There is hope in Christ. There is redemption by his blood. Jesus gave his life for you in such humbleness because he loves you so much. Since we are so blessed, let us bless the world. It's a question of where we want people to spend eternity: either with Jesus in Heaven, or forever burning in hell. We must put more effort and compassion into witnessing to the lost. This life is way to short and precious for believers to ever take it for granted.

In Christ,

Colin