“Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God” (Philippians 1:27-28)

Many years ago, I was gripped and encouraged by God’s words to Abraham when the Lord said to him: “I am God Almighty; walk before Me faithfully and be blameless. Then I will make My covenant between Me and you and will greatly increase your numbers” (Genesis 17:1). Abraham was now 99 years old, 24 years after the Lord had called him. He had had several and diverse experiences. Yet, keep walking the Lord said. The Lord wasn’t done with him yet. How would Abraham walk? “Walk before Me.” The Message translation says: “I am The Strong God, live entirely before Me.” This is safe and assured place!

Likewise, God isn’t done with us. So, Paul, though imprisoned, exhorted the saints saying: “Whatever happens, conduct yourselves…” He inspired them to rise above and see beyond what was before them: the trials, the chains and difficulties. There is a manner of walking which is worthy of the gospel of Christ. God was telling Abraham to take a stand in Him, and the same He tells us too. “Stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel.” There is an associated promise: “you will be saved—and that by God.”

BeEncouraged❤️ Freely received. Freely share