We are still in chapter three of Philippians with our study on how God expects us to conduct ourselves during this life on earth.
I believe that the Book of Philippians is a God inspired guideline for our walk and being in this world. And just as a reminder, the Book of Philippians is not the only book in the Bible to give advice for life. We have to take the whole of Scripture into consideration and it’s important to keep all of it in context.
Philippians 3:17 (NKJV)
Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern.
Paul is encouraging all believers to follow his and any true brother and sister in Christ’s example on how to follow Christ.
Basically, what he is saying is that we should pattern our life after Christ and learn from those who follow Christ just like e.g. Paul. When we pattern our life after Christ we don’t set our minds on earthly things but on heavenly ones. Why would we do that? Paul explains in verse 20:
Philippians 3:20a (NKJV)
For our citizenship is in heaven,
Focus on the goal! How do we pattern our life after Christ and where do we find help?
Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV)
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.
Trust in His guidance and obey Him. Pray daily, let our prayer be like a “conversation with God”. He is our friend; we can talk to Him about everything. Then listen while reading and studying His word. This will keep us grounded. It will help us in our efforts to try following Jesus’ example.
Regular fellowship with other like-minded brothers and sisters in Christ helps and encourages me to follow Christ and His teachings. Being around them encourages me to follow their example and it holds me accountable. That includes going to a Bible conference, immersing myself into His word for a whole week.
This Covid-Virus situation has put a great damper on our fellowshipping. I feel it’s quite unhealthy staying isolated. Zoom meetings are no replacement. And they are easy for the devil to interrupt by cutting off the power or just the internet signal. We live in the mountains and internet signal isn’t always stable, it depends on the weather conditions. A meeting in person is more difficult for Satan to interrupt.
Are you serving as an example on how to follow Christ?
Is that easier said than done?
Feel free to leave me a comment; I would like to hear your thoughts on this.
May our hearts rejoice in the Lord always!
I hope this post is an encouragement to you in your walk with the Lord.
Philippians 1:9-11 (NKJV)
And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.
To God be the Glory!
Next week we will start in chapter 4 of Philippians.
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