Philippians 1:27-30 Sufffferin Succotashhh

Philippians 1:27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel 

28 without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved--and that by God. 29 For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, 30 since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.

Stand strong...  don't blow your testimony... stay focused... don't let them scare you.  Paul has to remind them, because like his life, the Philippians aren't seeing all rainbows and unicorns.... they're seeing some serious trials and persecution themselves.

We have been given so many things when we came to Christ: forgiveness, new life, power over sin, a life of purpose and much more but it's also been given to us to  suffer for Him (v29) who suffered for us.  (Not my favorite gift... one I'd usually like to return). Yes, suffering... it's to be expected.  Yeah, doesn't make me want to rejoice either.  Those who promise you health, wealth and prosperity when you come to Christ, couldn't be more contrary to God's word.  Suffering is part of the deal. 

As much as we hate it, it is never in vain.  God uses these things to shape us and mold us and draw us to Himself.  I don't like saying it ('because Lord, this is not an invitation to send some') but there will be no growth or maturity without hardships in life.  The times I have felt closest to the Lord, or grown most in my faith, were the hardest times.  Think back for a minute.

But no matter the circumstance, Paul tells them to 'walk in a manner worthy of the gospel'.   Don't be fearful.  This is no time to start trash-talkin' like the ones who trouble us.  Don't let your faith waver.   Don't even think about tossing off the royal robes to get in the ring with those looking for a fight.  This persecution is evidence that you are in the family of God .... and (v28) they are not... 'they will be destroyed' 😟... 

oh, wow...that should make us change our perspective.

Most of us are not remotely familiar with the religious persecution of Paul or his fellow servants, or Christians around the world today, but we all understand adversity.   Life is filled with trials that can turn our world upside down.  Abandonment.  Bad diagnosis. Unfair bosses.  Rock-throwers. Faith Mockers.  It's inevitable.  

"Conduct yourselves worthy of the gospel" Paul tells them. The way we behave is not based on the behavior of others, how they treat us or what difficulty we face.  We are to respond based on the character and example of our Savior.  We are His ambassadors to those around us.. even to those who persecute us... yikes!  So, whether it's sunshine and rainbows or darkness and trials he tells them to stand firm and not be fearful. We need to keep our nose in His word and our feet of faith firmly planted. Let's live the gospel out loud.  Like Paul says to us, and as Christ demonstrated for us, and regardless of how we are treated -  let's walk worthy today.