Eve of Fasting: Stand Firm in the Lord

This week we will take a look at the fourth and final chapter of Philippians. We'll start this evening, so that we can get all the way through the chapter by Thursday morning.

Philippians 4:1-3

1Therefore, my brothers, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, that is how you should stand firm in the Lord, dear friends!

2I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to agree with each other in the Lord. 3Yes, and I ask you, loyal yokefellow, help these women who have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.

Stand Firm in the Lord

Paul urges the people of Philippi to stand firm in the Lord. Amy has been a textbook example of following this instruction. All one has to do is read her blog to see that this is exactly what she is doing. Her response to Adam's accident and injuries is a model for all of us during times of trouble.

Living in Harmony

It is only natural that people will disagree at times. The key is that we manage conflict properly to avoid divisions among the church (believers). Unfortunately, it is often during times of extraordinary stress that divisions can occur. We need to be on guard against self-centeredness and an unwillingness to compromise. As a body of believers, we are also called to help those in conflict.

One of the positive aspects of our united day of prayer and healing is that we have come together in harmony. We have a shared purpose — fasting and praying for the healing of Adam. I believe that God responds to an accident like Adam's by "making lemonade out of lemons."

Tomorrow, let us stand firm in the Lord as we pray together.

Tonight, pray that Amy would continue to stand firm in the Lord.  And, let's pray for each other — that we would all stand firm in the Lord, and that we would live in harmony.

Hillary will be leading us in the morning. Watch for her post at 6:00 a.m., Eastern time (see info about hours).