We continue our Thanksgiving series looking at things for which we can be thankful regardless of our circumstances. This week we look at being thankful for the people of God.
Scripture Reference
Philippians 1: 3-7
Sermon Notes
As Paul writes from prison, we see he is full of joy and thanksgiving for the people of God in Philippi.
- Paul gives thanks for the people of God (verse 3)
- Paul is intentional in giving thanks for them. He actively remembers them and rather than become self-absorbed in jail, he chooses to think about his friends – those he had impacted and those who impacted him.
- Who are we thankful for? Who influenced you for Christ and who have you influenced? Bring them to mind. Cultivate new relationships to be thankful for.
- Paul gives joyful thanks for God’s people in spite of their human failings (verses 4, 6)
- These aren’t people who never mess up – Philippians 4:2 is clear there is disunity in the church. But verse 6 is also clear – Paul is confident they are a work in progress and will be perfected one day. So he gives thanks for them in joy, rather than dwelling on the negative.
- For us, joy comes from focusing on the positive – it is easy to find the flaws in every Christian and be disappointed. Instead, choose to see the positive and give thanks with joy.
- Paul gives thanks for their partnership in the gospel (verse 5)
- Paul gives thanks because the entire church is made up of people Paul ministered to and who are doing ministry with him – financial and prayer support at a minimum.
- We need to be like Paul in difficult circumstances -who is praying for us, encouraging us, ministering with us, supporting us in need? Who are we praying for, supporting, etc.? Give thanks for these partners in the gospel.
Verse 7 – it is right to feel this way – sharing in grace!