God’s Surprising Word: Faith Active in LoveSample

Introduction

Philippians 1:1–11: Today we begin reading the apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians, which he wrote while in prison. This community of believers in Philippi, located in the Roman province of Macedonia (Acts 16:12), was the first church Paul established on European soil. The letter is marked by its emphasis on joy, confidence, unity, and perseverance in the Christian faith and life. It also reveals the deep affection Paul had for the believers at Philippi. He begins with a greeting, traditionally used in formal Greek letter writing, followed by a prayer of thanksgiving.

Today’s Key Verse: Philippians 1:11 GNT

Your lives will be filled with the truly good qualities which only Jesus Christ can produce, for the glory and praise of God.

Reflect

Reread verses 3–11. What does Paul pray for? What does Paul’s prayer indicate about his relationship with the Philippian church? Paul refers to Christ’s return several times throughout the letter. Twice in this opening chapter, Paul refers to the “Day of Christ” (verses 6 and 10), inviting his readers to consider their present lives in light of Christ’s return.

Pray

Lord God, I want to be free from all impurity and blame on the Day of Christ. Please help me continue growing in Christlikeness, abounding in true knowledge and discernment, so I can make wise choices each day. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Philippians 1:12–30: Paul discusses living as the gospel of Christ requires.