Philippians 1: Everything Happens for a Reason

                Paul opens his letter to the Philippians and explains that Timotheus and he are both bond servants of the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul prays the Philippians may be without offence until the day of Christ, filled with the fruits of righteousness. He urges members to speak more boldly, as he has of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul explains that everything happens for a divine reason; “…the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel;” (Philippians 1:12) The reason for his suffering and imprisonment was so others could be more confidence and speak “…more bold[ly]…without fear.” (Philippians 1:14)

                Paul urges the Saints to “…stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation… For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake; “ (Philippians 1:27-29) Essentially Paul is telling the Philippian Saints to not worry about what will happen to them or be afraid of the evil. He explains that as followers of Christ, they too must suffer for his sake, however all things work out for a reason. Be not discouraged or upset by the adversaries who attempt to dismantle your belief in Jesus Christ!