Philippians 1,2

These two chapters have a few verses that are often memorized by believers. And for good reason: They encourage us to remember who we are at our core and why we are here and how we should respond to the world around us!

Phil. 1:6 ...he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Phil. 1:21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
Phil. 2:14 Do everything without grumbling or arguing...

In America, it seems almost surreal to imagine the life Paul lived as he was in chains for Christ. He never lost sight of his mission, and, in fact, found that his mission never changed wherever he went. His myopic view of living for Christ through his words and actions followed him from city to city, country to country, and situation to situation. So my thoughts as I read these chapters first went to those who are persecuted for Him today. It’s important to read about our brothers and sisters in chains because they inspire me to 1. pray for them 2. know that if I am ever in chains for Christ, instead of feeling sorry for myself and angry at those who put me there, I can choose to see my circumstances as meaningful and useful for spreading the good news of Christ. 3. remember that it’s normal to experience persecution for those who call upon Jesus as Lord and Savior.

This is one reason why I am drawn to Voice of the Martyrs ministry. The stories of my brothers and sisters keep it real and personal. Who knows, in a short period of time we may be imprisoned, beaten, and killed the same way our forerunners were when Paul shared his faith in Christ.