Scripture
13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard[c] and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear. Philippians 1:13-14 NIV
Observation
Paul is not complaining that he is under arrest and in jail. In what would be a dire and depressing situation, Paul uses whatever situation he is in to preach the Gospel. He looks at opportunity when others see as unfortunate. Paul’s being jailed allowed him to be a light and even bring the jailers to know about Jesus. Not only does he share the Gospel, but through praise and worship, he chooses to serve others and share Christ. From the boldness that Paul shares the Gospel in jail, it also becomes encouragement to the brothers and sisters in Christ. When others see you being bold for Christ amidst the situation you may be in, it stirs others to also be bold for Jesus. God has us in places for a reason. How easy it is to complain and whine about the predicament we are in. But like Paul, we should use it as an opportunity. It is said in the Bible that God works all things for good for those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose. God has called Paul to be in hard situations, not because He is a bully. Rather, God uses Paul to reach those who otherwise would not hear the Gospel. Are we using every situation that we are in to preach or be pitiful?
Application
I know I have complained and whined about being in situations that only seemed terrible. But God wants us to see it as He does. It is an opportunity to reach those that others could not. In whatever situation I may find myself in, I pray that I can see it as an opportunity to share Jesus. By looking it that way, anything that comes our way we become excited. May my eyes be discerning and my heart be vigilant to the opportunities the Lord provides me to share Jesus.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for sharing Your Word with me today! Thank you for allowing Paul to be an example to follow. Thank you for allowing Jesus to show us how to have the right perspective. Help me to have eyes that see opportunities to share Jesus. In Your Name, Jesus amen!
