Featured Posts

Church

Former Megachurch Pastor Goes Church Hopping as a Newcomer

When finally given the opportunity to simply attend, and not preside or preach ...

End Times

Revelation Road: Are Christians Living in the Last Days?

Bill Salus, an author, researcher and lecturer who focuses on the prophetic ...

Ministries

Exodus Int'l Head Calls Gays 'Brothers and Sisters in Christ'

The president of the world's largest ministry to homosexuals and their families ...

Church & Ministries

Pastor Burnout Is Result of Idol-Chasing, Lack of Grip on Gospel

Increasing pressures and demands from the ministry coupled with a lack of the ...

Philippians 4:10-13

Our world emphatically proclaims the importance of self-esteem, which is a favorable impression of oneself. Surely, we are told, an individual who values himself highly will accomplish much. Yet Scripture tells us that true confidence flows, not from self, but from our identity in Christ.

In God’s Word, we learn that Paul experienced this appropriate assurance. He expressed certainty regarding the message and ministry God gave him (Gal. 1:15-17; Rom. 1:16). The apostle was also sure of eternal security in Jesus (Rom. 8:37-39). What’s more, today’s passage shows that Paul stood firmly on his belief that He could do anything in God’s will because Jesus was living through him.

The Holy Spirit is the basis for our confidence-not positive thinking, right circumstances, or the ability to think highly of ourselves. Even in the midst of difficulty, we can live with boldness because the Spirit of the living God dwells within our being and enables us to follow Him.

Of course, we have a role too. The Spirit directs us and strengthens us, but we are responsible to listen, obey, and diligently follow His guidance each day. We can have assurance in an unstable world because almighty God provides everything we need to live triumphantly.

Are you facing situations that make you feel inadequate or insecure? Search the Bible for descriptions of His character. Realize that this sovereign, almighty God-the Beginning and the End-lives inside of you. Find your confidence in the one who is your Creator, Redeemer, and Friend.

Like us on Facebook