Good Future

Philippians 1:6-7 Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ; 7 just as it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart, inasmuch as both in my chains and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers with me of grace. 
 
HOW does it feel to be encouraged? I’m sure you have experienced this joy. “You can do it! Study hard, and you’ll be a teacher, an engineer. Practice your shot; you’ll be a great player. Run hard, and you’ll learn to run far. Be of faith. God has gifted you for his good work.” Paul weaves his letters to churches, to Timothy, to Titus, to Philemon and to others with encouraging, strengthening words. He is God’s instrument to empower Jesus’ church to be of good, firm faith, trusting what God is about to do through them. Paul personally knows about this. He has experienced how life-giving encouragement has been to him and his ministry. Barnabas (whose name means “encourager”), for example, was instrumental to teach and guide Paul in the early years of call to ministry. In Philippi it was Lydia who first encouraged Paul, “If you consider me a believer in the Lord," she said, "come and stay at my house.” (Acts 16:15) And the first church in Europe began. Paul is absolutely convinced – people who faithfully follow Jesus will have a fulfilled joyful walk with their Lord as we lovingly encourage one another.
    Note, I didn’t say we would have an easy walk with Jesus, and neither did Paul. Encouragement is especially necessary as we confront many daily challenges. We must praise God for the blessings and for the trials. Victories mean little without the struggle.
    Do you believe this for your own life? Are you perhaps feeling “out of practice” as your faith habits have slipped? Do you have a sense that you’ll never get to where God wants you to be? Are you even perhaps willing to say, “I give up.”
    Then stop and know this is a spiritual battle. The devil and his demons speak discouragement. Remember, your Lord has saved you! He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. This is God’s promise. God keeps his promises. His Spirit faithfully empowers you to a true life with Him.
    Paul’s words, “I am sure of this.” is a wonderful, “You will do it!” encouragement, isn’t it? Paul is completely confident that Christ Jesus will continue His work in those who are faithful to Jesus. Be faithful, and you will know the joy of living in Jesus’ complete work in you.
 
Joy Link: Yes, He’s begun His good work in you!