28
Feb '25
Triple S’s
28
Feb '25
Introduction: This brief devotion will cover the three S’s in the text. What a message for all of us! Are you suffering? What about persecution? Affliction? Temptation? How should we respond? Study the following:
1. Be Steadfast! (Phil 1:27) – “Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.”
The word “steadfast” is στήκω (stay’-ko), which means to “stand firm,” stand fast, or even persevere. Are you standing firm in your faith? Are you persevering?
2. Be Striving! (Phil 1:27) – “Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.”
The word “striving” is συναθλέω (soon-ath-leh’-o), which means to strive together or to contend together. It can mean to compete together or cooperate vigorously with others. In this case, Paul is referring to the Church. Do you have a cooperative spirit with others?
3. Be Suffering Hardship Like Jesus! (Phil 1:29) – “For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake.”
Suffering is listed in God’s disciple list. Jesus suffered for us, paying our sin debt. Clearly, we cannot suffer like Him, but we are called to suffer hardships. How are you doing? Comfort, ease, and pleasure are not on God’s blueprint for His children.
Conclusion: Being “steadfast” and “striving” together with others during times of suffering is biblical. Do you retreat to an island when suffering? Complain? Blame? May our Lord give us grace to suffer persecution, affliction, and even temptation with a steadfast determination, while our aim will be to honor Him.
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese