by Pastor Su Kim
As the world adjusts to stay-at-home orders, the Bible tells us that the Apostle Paul had to adjust not only to stay-at-home orders but to being chained in his own home under guard. No longer able to travel freely and share the gospel of Jesus Christ, it seemed that Paul’s imprisonment would hinder the spread of the Good News. And yet, God used this new situation. His incarceration afforded the church a chance to support Paul. The generosity expressed by Christ’s church during those trying times reminded Paul of God’s provision and care, which allowed him to remain joyful and content in all circumstances (Philippians 4:12-13). It also gave Paul an opportunity to write his letter to the church in Philippi. He tells the church, “I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel” (Philippians 1:12, ESV). A new situation allowed the furtherance of the gospel in profound ways and gave followers of Christ the book of Philippians, a source of wisdom and inspiration through the ages.
How might this new situation in which we find ourselves serve to advance the gospel? How might God be encouraging each of us to be generous as an expression of gratitude to God for the glory of His name? What innovative ways will God allow for more people to hear the good news?