DON’T GIVE UP!

Paul cared deeply for the church at Philippi. They had been supportive of Paul’s ministry during his second and third missionary journeys, and especially during his imprisonment in Rome.

Unlike his other epistles, Paul didn’t write to correct the theology or the activities among the people in Philippi. He wrote the letter to the Philippians to encourage.

He started his correspondence by writing, “I give thanks to my God for every remembrance of you, always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. I am sure of this, that he who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:3-6).

Paul didn’t want his friends and family in Philippi to get discouraged when things were tough, so he promised, “He who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion!”

Paul had reason to be depressed, disheartened, and discouraged. He wasn’t free to come and go. He was in jail! He was innocent but waited at least two years for a court date (Acts 28:30).

Have you ever gotten bogged down or beat up by troubles, temptations, or tests? A pink slip? A diagnosis? Broken relationships? The untimely death of a loved one? More month than money?

Remember this! The One that saved you can sustain you! Don’t give up! “He who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion!” That’s a promise!

“… think on these things” (Philippians 4:8, KJV).