Chapter 1

Please read the chapter thoroughly at least once, and write down any questions you have or any verses that stick out to you. 

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+1&version=ESV

STUDY

• What willl be completed in you on the day of Jesus' return?

• Describe Paul's prayer for the church in Philippi in verses 9-11.

• Paraphrase verse 21 in your own words.

• What word sums up verse 27?

APPLICATION

• How do you see the Holy Spirit perfecting you in this season of life?

• Can you agree with Paul, that "to live is Christ, but to die is gain"? Why or why not?

• How can I promote unity in the body of Christ?

PRUNING ME

    Well, it's obvious that I am a work in progress.  Thank the Lord that He hasn't given up on me, but continues to perfect me through His Spirit.  One way that He perfects us, is by allowing us to discern what God's will is, and better understanding of His Word.  I have really grown a lot this year, and find so much more fulfillment in His Word than I ever have before.  Jesus wants us all to dig deep in His Word and let it change our lives.  Are you letting Him?  Do you spend intentional time studying God's Word?

    When I read "to live is Christ, to die is gain",  I asked myself- are these my words too?  Do I honestly desire to be with Jesus more than life on this earth?  How much do I treasure this earthly life?  How much do I love Jesus? I can honestly say that a year or two ago, I would have had a check in my heart about how much I treasured this life, rather than the eternal life I will inherit.  But today, I can say that my life here is meaningless without Jesus, and my only purpose here is to glorify Him and share Him with the people around me.

    In verse 27, we have the reminder that our, "manner of life (should) be worthy of the gospel of Christ".  Does my life reflect Jesus?  Does your life reflect Jesus?

• Leanne