Nothing encourages a Christian as much as he knowledge that despite life’s uncertainties and difficulties, and no matter how many spiritual defeats there may be along the way, one day they will be made perfect. It is easy for us to become discouraged when we focus on our problems and imperfections, yet we need to remember the words of Philippians 1:6 to be reminded that God is doing something in our lives. Anticipation, is a big part of the excitement that it is to have relationships that bring hope and perspective in our lives. It starts with God and then moves to those who have impacted our lives. Who has impacted your life over the last year? Perhaps you can be an encouragement to them, and let them know that impact. We do not do what we do in order to be recognized, but recognition is a great way to encourage others. Take a moment and call, text, or send a card to someone to encourage them for their impact in your life.… READ MORE

Thanksgiving is an attitude of the heart, that should be manifest every day of our lives, and celebrated at least once a year. Paul reminds us of 5 specific elements of joy as it is related to others. We must remember that life is spent accumulating things, but the only possession that is eternal is relationships. Let me share with you a couple things for you to be grateful for as you prepare for Thanksgiving on Thursday. 1. The joy of Recollection (Philippians 1:3) Having a genuine desire to remember and focus on the goodness, kindness, and successes of others does not involve denying their weaknesses and shortcomings but rather looking past them. The Holy Spirit often prompts us to appreciate other’s love, generosity, and compassion and to forget the rest. 2. The joy of intercession (Philippians 1:4) Possessing God-given joy should lead us not to focus on ourselves, but even in the midst of pain or difficult circumstances we should be focused on those we are grateful for. It is our privilege to pray for those that God has brought into our lives. 3. The joy of Participation (Philippians 1:5) This is not a natural, man-made fellowship but one … READ MORE

The missing ingredient in this country and in the hearts of people is gratitude. You look in the stores, and immediately following Halloween, the marketing people put up the Christmas sales, this week the most anticipated day, is not Thursday, it is Friday’s black Friday’s sales. In the book of Philippians Paul addresses this great concept. Gratitude leads to a joy that should be an unwavering constant in a Spirit filled life, not a transient emotional feeling that comes and goes depending on circumstances. In Philippians 1:3-8 The apostle gives 5 specific elements of his Spirit-engendered joy as it related to other believers. As we prepare for Thanksgiving we need to consider these elements. Let me start by just sharing those elements, and then expound on them the next couple of days. He speaks of the joy of Recollection in verse 3; The joy of Intercession in verse 4; The joy of participation in verse 5; the joy of Anticipation in verse 6; and the joy of Affection in verses 7-8. As we approach Thanksgiving this week perhaps we need to be challenged to think back and be encouraged by the people God has brought into our lives.… READ MORE