September 2 - Day 2
Phil. 1:12-30
Psalm 2
Prov. 1:7-9
Phil. 1:12-30
Psalm 2
Prov. 1:7-9
"For me to live is Christ and to die is gain." That is such a powerful statement and unique perspective on life. Paul was uncertain what would happen to him. There was that looming possibility that his life and ministry would come to an end. They say that hope is the most powerful fuel on earth. How do you have hope when death threatens to end everything. Paul did.
As I read today, I thought of my sister's father in law who is gravely ill with cancer. His name is Ray Lontoc. The Lontoc family was one of the first ones who came to faith after the war under the ministry of Frank Hooge. I have known him pretty much my whole life. He is a godly man who loves God, has faithfully served in the church and loves the Bible. It was reported to me that when he was diagnosed and the doctor was discussing treatment options his response was, "Doctor, if I have an appointment with God, I don't want to be late." What a confidence and hope even in the toughest of times.
I need to sieze hope today and remember why I am living - "for Christ". Paul had a clear understanding that life on earth was not all there was. He did not live life on earth in a short sighted temporary way. Everything he did was for "Christ".
If you are reading this please take a moment and pray for Ray Lontoc and his family. These are very difficult days for them. Paul in this chapter commented "for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance." Praying for each other does matter. Maybe there is someone God will lead you to pray for as your read this. That is a very important assignment.
As I read today, I thought of my sister's father in law who is gravely ill with cancer. His name is Ray Lontoc. The Lontoc family was one of the first ones who came to faith after the war under the ministry of Frank Hooge. I have known him pretty much my whole life. He is a godly man who loves God, has faithfully served in the church and loves the Bible. It was reported to me that when he was diagnosed and the doctor was discussing treatment options his response was, "Doctor, if I have an appointment with God, I don't want to be late." What a confidence and hope even in the toughest of times.
I need to sieze hope today and remember why I am living - "for Christ". Paul had a clear understanding that life on earth was not all there was. He did not live life on earth in a short sighted temporary way. Everything he did was for "Christ".
If you are reading this please take a moment and pray for Ray Lontoc and his family. These are very difficult days for them. Paul in this chapter commented "for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance." Praying for each other does matter. Maybe there is someone God will lead you to pray for as your read this. That is a very important assignment.
Reading for September 3
September 3
Phil. 2:1-11
September 3
Phil. 2:1-11
Psalm 3:1-8
Prov. 1:10-19Thanks for all of the comments. Please keep them coming.
9 comments:
I appreciated Prov. 1:7-9. My parents have given me a heritage of believing God and it has become a treasure to me.
LauraD
I am praying for someone right now--the friend who promises to come with me Sunday.
What do people cling to that have no hope in a brighter tomorrow. I appreciate people like Ray who are ready to go be with the lord whenever he calls. I pray for those that do not know the lord and suffer with a disease that can take them at any time. Is it the fear of the unknown that keeps them clinging to life....I pray for my father who I am certain has not made peace with the Lord and suffers from Empazima
Read day 3, looking fwd to your commentary
-miles
We live in a world that is all about me, my rights, what's best for me. Even as a Christian, so often I find myself falling into that sense of entitlement. Paul's letter reminds me of the treasure of humility and the true joy I get from giving to others. I love the Psalms! So many are so relative to different phases of our lives. It makes me feel so connected to other Christians to know that even David, a man after God's own heart, experienced similiar trials & joys in life.
Its difficult for me to wrap my mind around Christs attitude of humility as Paul describes it. He is Creator- God! I agree with marjorie, its so easy to feel "entitled" (pride). Really, the only thing I can boast of- is Him!
The Roy's read Day 2...
We read at night together, so my post seems late. Oh well, as long as we hang in there!
-Teri
Prov 1:8 not only am I grateful for my parents, but I spent many summers and weekends with my 2 grandmothers who were Godly women. David
It is comforting to know that God hears us and better still wants to talk with us.
Mick
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