Today’s Bible Verse
Whatever happens, keep living your lives based on the reality of the gospel of Christ which reveals him to others…
Philippians 1:27a (TPT)
Living Forward
In his letter to the Philippians, Paul shares, while he is imprisoned, about a joy and that is not contingent on our external situations or circumstances. This true joy he shares about is cultivated, and birthed from a heart that is engaged in connecting with others in sharing the gospel. Through his example, we learn how to “Live Forward.” We see that when we choose to live by keeping our eyes on God’s Word, it keeps our focus on the reality of the gospel of Christ. And that reality is filled with opportunities to experience Christ’s joy, the UNCOMMON life.
When we encounter an unexpected loss, challenge, or circumstance, we have a choice to make. We can choose to entertain the temptation to want to put everything on hold, to push “pause” and put all our energy and attention on the problem at hand – the common way of life. Or we can choose to make a deliberate decision to stand firm on God’s Word, that whatever may happen or come our way, we will resolve to “fix our heart on the promises of God and we will be secure feasting on His faithfulness” (Psalm 37:3 TPT), living the UNCOMMON way of life.
If we choose the latter, we will see that “day by day the Lord watches the good deeds of the godly and He prepares for them His forever-reward. Even in a time of disaster He will watch over them…” (Psalm 37:18-19 TPT). A wellspring of confidence will rise within us that will not only powerfully impact us personally but will also “…reveal Him to others.” (Philippians 1:27). (Pastor Charli Abihai)
An Uncommon Life
In this new season for my children and I, since my husband’s transition to his heavenly address nine months ago, I have found that we too have a choice to make. As we keep our focus on living and sharing about the reality of the gospel, it brings us life, strength, and joy. It empowers us to “Live Forward”.
From time to time, we do have our tender-hearted moments because we miss his physical presence on this side of glory. But when we purpose to refocus our hearts on the gospel, the beauty of the promise of Heaven and that he really and truly is more alive than ever, it refreshes us and fires us up to want to help encourage others in that same joy as well!
Today’s Declaration
Regardless of whatever may come my way, I purpose in my heart to respond in an UNCOMMON way. I choose to passionately share about the hope of the gospel to empower others to embrace the life and joy it brings.
Today’s Bible Reading
- Old Testament: 1 Kings 8; Psalms 119:33-40
- New Testament: Luke 1:67-80; Ephesians 3:1-13
