In the Word: Philippians 2:1-2

This week in our zoom Bible study on Wednesday we looked at the passage of Philippians 1:27-2:18. While I struggled to focus (honest much?) on the study, having spent the past 48 with a sick toddler who was struggling to settle to sleep, I skimmed the Passion Translation of the text. This verse stood out to me especially.

Look at how much encouragement you’ve found in your relationship with the Anointed One! You are filled to overflowing with his comforting love. You have experienced a deepening friendship with the Holy Spirit and have felt his tender affection and mercy.

So I’m asking you, my friends, that you be joined together in perfect unity—with one heart, one passion, and united in one love. Walk together with one harmonious purpose and you will fill my heart with unbounded joy.

It got me thinking about how I and indeed how we, as Christians conduct ourselves in everyday life. Because I can say truthfully that I don't necessarily live each day from the place that Paul describes in verse 1. Am I filled to overflowing with Christ's comforting love? Am I experiencing a deepening friendship with the Holy Spirit? Do I feel his tender affection and mercy? What does that even look like?

It is no wonder then, that we can't seem to unite with fellow Christians in perfect unity. It occurred to me that for there to be a common purpose that unites a group of people, they need to have a passion for that purpose. Where is our passion? Do you find joy and excitement in Jesus? Or are you distracted by lesser pursuits. I admit I'm guilty of that distraction. It feels easier. But I can't point the finger of blame at those who I experience disunity with, without first examining my own motivations and priorities.

My desire is to experience that encouragement from a relationship with Christ, the Anointed One. To be filled to overflowing with his comforting love, so that I can pour it out onto others. I want a deeper friendship with the Holy Spirit so that I can share that tender affection and mercy without reserve to those around me. And I want that for you too.

Today I have no discussion questions for you, but I'd like you to go back over the questions I asked above and sit with them. Answer them honestly, between yourself and God. Ask Him to reveal to you how you can better connect with Him so that He can better connect you with others.

To God be the glory.

N.