We Are In This Together
September 24/25, 2022
Daniel Im

In order to get better at focusing, we need to get better at blurring.

1. Blur your self-absorption
- Paul was able to blur his self-absorption by focusing on the Philippians needs.
- Now I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon so that I too may be encouraged by news about you. For I have no one else like-minded who will genuinely care about your interests; all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 2:19-21 CSB)
- How? By prayerfully meeting the needs of those around you.

2. Blur your uninvolvement
- Paul blurred the temptation to become uninvolved by continuing to disciple Timothy.
- For I have no one else like-minded who will genuinely care about your interests; all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. But you know his proven character, because he has served with me in the gospel ministry like a son with a father. (Philippians 2:20-22 CSB)
- How? By learning how to be and make disciples by going to beulah.ca/theway

3. Blur your pessimism
- Paul blurred his pessimism by living with hope.
- Therefore, I hope to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. I am confident in the Lord that I myself will also come soon. (Philippians 2:23-24 CSB)

- How? By letting the hope-filled words of Scripture shape your life:

Sustain me as you promised, and I will live; do not let me be ashamed of my hope. (Psalm 119:116 CSB)

May your faithful love rest on us, Lord, for we put our hope in you. (Psalm 33:22 CSB)

Since, then, we have such a hope, we act with great boldness. (2 Corinthians 3:12 CSB)

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure… (Hebrews 6:19 CSB)

For you are my hope, Lord God, my confidence from my youth. (Psalm 71:5 CSB)

But I will hope continually and will praise you more and more. (Psalm 71:14 CSB)