Not Halted!

Limitations. Restricted activity. Seeming setbacks. Perhaps these are seen as halting ADVANCEMENT. However, is that always the case? Such may cause us to feel we are unable to make progress when they touch our lives, but that does not mean they stop what God can do in spite of them. This is a truth we see in the life of Paul. Even though he had been imprisoned ( Philippians 1:7) and therefore did not have the freedom to travel among the churches as he had previously done, that did not stop what God was doing. Therefore, he was encouraged in spite of the limitations he experienced. This is the perspective Paul expressed in his letter to the church at Philippi.

We read. . .
"(12) I want you to know, brothers, that WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO ME HAS REALLY SERVED TO ADVANCE THE GOSPEL, (13) so that it HAS BECOME KNOWN throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that MY IMPRISONMENT IS FOR CHRIST. (14) And most of the brothers, having become CONFIDENT IN THE LORD by my imprisonment, are MUCH MORE BOLD TO SPEAK THE WORD without fear." ( Philippians 1:12-14 ESV)

Though Paul was imprisoned, even among the "imperial guard" it became known why. His link to the Lord became clearly known. Paul also noted his imprisonment had inspired others not to refrain from speaking the Word of God, but rather to speak it more boldly. Besides this, due to his imprisonment, Paul had opportunity to reach some he might not have otherwise; even some among "Caesar's household." ( Philippians 4:22) You could chain the man, but not the Word. ( 2 Timothy 2:8-9) The Gospel continued to ADVANCE!

The world may try to hold us back, but let us remember we are not in this alone. The way we respond to life's varied challenges can testify to a joyful faith that encourages others. We also may be surprised what other opportunities arise as well. May we keep our eyes open to the possibilities to serve God's purposes wherever we are and in whatever circumstances we may find ourselves. There is no retreat with God. May His ADVANCEMENT of truth continue in and through us.

Have a great day MOVING FORWARD WITH GOD!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on God's Power