The Paradoxical Process of Progress: Philippians 4
Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved.
Philippians 4:1
“Stand firm”
“Stand firm” is the process of making progress.
“Life interruption” often leads to detours to destiny!
For the believer and follower of Christ, what feels like a total loss, an unbearable hurt and a hopeless dead-end detour transforms into a progression and maturity of faith and truth.
Paradox
A statement or phrase that seems to contradict itself; a self-contradictory or even an absurdity. But when investigated- _it’s truth_
Scriptural principles that at first glance look like a contradiction but in reality are paradoxes (truth).
-God desires the praises of His people.
-Give your resources to God, the One who owns everything, and you’ll get back more.
And when you have more, you give more.
-Die to self, so you can have life.
Paul’s paradoxical process of progress.
Look for the good, _overlook_ the bad.
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand;
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
Philippians 4:4-6
Why approach God with thanksgiving?
1). God is good.
2). I don’t deserve.
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me- practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
Philippians 4:8-9
Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving.
Ephesians 5:4
-Count your blessings, discount your losses.
I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.
Philippians 4:10-12
Contentment isn’t complacency, but inner peace that comes from being right with God and knowing Ge is in control.
Inject possibility, reject your _impossibility_.
I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13