As I was reading the book of Philippians and thinking of what the relationship of Paul to the Philippians might have been, the words "kindred spirit" came to mind. I looked up some definitions of that term and found a couple that I like and think are applicable:
"person with whom one has something in common"
or
"a person who shares beliefs, attitudes, or features with another"
I think that describes us, too. Don't you?!?!?! How blessed we are to be able to worship, minister, and encourage each other on a daily and weekly.
I think Paul's letter to the Philippians is one that can be read as a personal letter between two dear friends. Paul is obviously encouraged by the lives of the Philippians and his words are encouraging reminders of the lives they are to live in Christ. You can hear Paul's fondness, affection, and respect for his brothers and sisters. His words are strong and we would expect nothing less from Paul. However, they are not sharp and corrective, but encouraging and loving. There are MANY nuggets of truth and encouragement in these chapters. Let's take a peek at a few of them:
"Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus." (2:5)
Is this really even possible???? If I'm honest, I have to admit that it's really hard for me to believe it's possible for me to have the same attitude as the Living God. Paul believed it is possible and through his words, God encourages us to be humble servants like Jesus was. Paul and the Philippians were great role models for us to follow. The ministered to each other, provided sacrificially for each other, prayed for each other, encouraged each other, loved each other. Their evident relationship is a wonderful reflection of Jesus' teaching to serve and minister to one another. God tells us that we are made in his likeness and that our minds can be renewed and transformed to be more like Christ. We can do "everything through him who gives us strength" (4:13). Yes, it's possible!
"Continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith." (1:25)
Paul understood too well the reality of impending human death and longed to be with the Lord in heaven. However, he also knew that God was working through him to spread the gospel and encourage other believers. As Paul and the Philippians each had their role in the gospel ministry, so do we today. We all have various gifts, talents, geographical locations, and "mission fields". We are to "press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold." (4:12). Again, this is a reminder for keeping an eternal perspective and allowing God to use us where where are. God gives us joy as we press on!
"Shine like stars" (2:15)
The instruction in this context is to "do everything without complaining or arguing". Hmmmmm (I have to stop here and confess) When we are obedient in this area, God's word tells us that some great things happen. We may become blameless and pure... without fault... we shine like stars. We stand out. We are different in the world. That's a goal well worth striving for!
"Do not be anxious about anything" (4:6)
Interestingly, Paul states earlier in the book that he has anxiety (2:28). Anxiety and worry are part of our human nature. God tells us to let our gentleness be evident instead of allowing anxiety to control us. When I am anxious, I am not gentle! And my attitude... not much like Christ. Comparing gentleness to anxiety is a great contrast and one that I can relate to too well. God promises his unfathomable peace when we take our worries and requests to him with prayer and thanksgiving. That's a promise to claim!These words written by Paul are also a sweet, personal letter from God to each of us. This book can be a wonderful source of encouragement as we allow the words flow through our mind and over our hearts. Dear sisters (and brothers), I want to encourage you with the same words as Paul wrote to the Philippians. I am confident that God will continue to work in our lives and that...
"...he who began a good work in you
will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
~Philippians 1:6
Press on, kindred spirits!
