Daily Reading: Philippians 1
To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1.1-2)
Devotional Thought: Philippians is one of the so-called “Prison Epistles,” letters written by the Apostle Paul while he was in prison (see Acts 24, 28.) Philippians is one of my favorite books in the Bible, and Philippians 1, today’s chapter, is one of my favorite chapters! Let a phrase in the very opening verses of the book change the way you think:
All the saints: Paul routinely calls, and the Bible describes, the people of God saints. And Paul is not just writing to some of the saints; he is writing to all the saints. Every church is made up of the saints. Some of the saints have achieved “saint-like status” through their long history of following Christ, their faithful service to God and the Church, and their deeds of compassion to the world. But just as “saintly” – according to Paul – are those followers of Christ who have just begun on the road to heaven. The youngest Christian is a saint! You may not be comfortable calling yourself a saint, but the Apostle Paul was comfortable in calling you a saint!
Together with overseers [NIV]: It seems to be almost an afterthought. Imagine getting a letter at your local church from a leading official in your denomination: “I’m writing to the saints… and oh yes, you preachers, too!” That would tend to put preachers in their place, wouldn’t it? But it’s true! You see, the message of the Bible is not limited to preachers or other leaders in the church. The Bible is written for you! And it’s not just for preachers to read, study and interpret. You are given that privilege and responsibility, too! Enjoy it today!
Prayer: Lord, though I am unworthy, you have set me apart for yourself, one of your "Holy Ones." And, you have given me your "Holy Word" to guide me in a life of grace and peace. Thank you! Amen.
Psalm of the Day: Psalm 131.1-3
1 O LORD, my heart is not lifted up; my eyes are not raised too high; I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me.
2 But I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me.
3 O Israel, hope in the LORD from this time forth and forevermore.
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