Let's Examine the Scriptures Every Day 2021
Sunday, December 12, 2021
Strive vigorously (Luke 13:24).
Let's see what situation the Apostle Paul was in when he wrote to the Philippians and how he was trying. He was under house arrest in Rome, so he couldn't go out to preach. Still, he kept busy witnessing to those who visited him and writing letters to distant congregations. He knew that, like Christ, he must strive to the same end. That is why he compared the life of the Christian to a career (1 Cor. 9: 24-27). Runners focus on the finish line and avoid what distracts them. For example, in an urban race, participants may run past some businesses and other potential distractions. Is it true that no broker would stop to look at what the stores offer? Of course not, because your wish is to win. Likewise, in the race for life we must avoid being distracted. If we focus on the goal and do our best, as Pablo did, we will win the prize. w19.08 3 par. 4; 4 par. 7
What did Paul know he had to do to reach the goal?
Pablo was convinced that he would finish the race and reach the goal. As an anointed Christian, he expected to receive the award of the heavenly call. But he knew he had to keep going to get it (Philippians 3:14). To help the Philippians keep track of the goal, he gave them an interesting comparison.
How did Paul use the theme of citizenship to encourage the Philippians to move on?
The apostle reminded the Philippians that they had their citizenship in heaven (Philippians 3:20). Why was it important that they not forget it? In those days, Roman citizenship was highly valued. * However, anointed Christians had a much better citizenship, allowing them to enjoy greater benefits. By comparison, Roman citizenship had little value. So Paul encouraged the Philippians with these words: "Conduct yourselves as citizens in a way worthy of the good news about the Christ" (Philippians 1:27, note). Today, anointed Christians are a magnificent example, as they press forward to reach the goal of eternal life in heaven.
According to Philippians 4: 6, 7, what should we continue to do whether we hope to live in heaven or hope to live on earth?
We must move forward to reach the goal, whether it is to live forever in heaven or in a Paradise on Earth. No matter what our circumstances are, let's not look back or let anything stop us from progressing (Phil. 3:16). It may seem that our expectations are slow to be met or we may not have the strength we had before. We may have endured hardship and persecution for many years. Be that as it may, let us not worry about anything, but let us make our prayers and requests known to God. He will give us a peace we cannot even imagine (read Philippians 4: 6, 7).
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