Re:Verse passage – Philippians 1:27-30 (day five)
“I will hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;” God’s grand design is on display in Paul’s mind and in his words. We all face suffering and difficulty at one time or another. Granted they may come in varying degrees, but the reality is that each of us has or will face suffering or difficulty or hardship. Jesus said, “Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me.” Matthew 5:11 If we live worthy of the gospel (as Paul exhorts) suffering WILL come. To them. To us.
The secret to standing firm is as much about fellowship as it is about fighting. Paul’s words reveal God’s wisdom and plan. Steadfastness is grounded in unity- one spirit, one mind, striving together. Will you seek out fellowship with others? Will you give and receive encouragement, accountability, and community to members the body? Social distancing does not hinder the work of the Spirit! Will you keep the unity of the church so that others may be able to “live a life worthy of the gospel” even in suffering?
