FILIPENSES 1:3

The letter Paul wrote to the church in Philippi has traveled across generations to nourish and challenge our hearts and minds today. This five-day devotional gives you a taste of the book of Philippians, many centuries from when God authored it through Paul. May God fill you with wonder and expectation as you read this letter of joy! Because these are not just Paul’s words to an ancient church—these are God’s words to you.

Learn how best to pray, both from the prayers of the faithful and from the words of Jesus Himself. Find encouragement to keep taking your requests to God every day, with persistence and patience. Explore examples of empty, self righteous prayers, balanced against the pure prayers of those with clean hearts. Pray constantly.

A great way to build your prayer life is to learn from the prayers of others. This plan lets us listen in on prayers from Bible heroes in different situations and for different purposes, and is designed to accompany the message series Pray by Craig Groeschel. (You can watch it online at life.church) Don't pray alone; study this content together with your small group.

The Bible tells us that "in His presence is fullness of joy" and that "the joy of the Lord is our strength". Joy isn't simply another emotion; it is a fruit of the Spirit and one of the best weapons in your arsenal to fight against discouragement, depression, and defeat. Learn what the Bible has to say about joy, and strengthening yourself to become a defiantly joyful Christian.