In what do you place your confidence? And is it worthy of your confidence?
Most of us place our confidence in ourselves or others. But what is the fruit of doing this? Though we might reap occasional rewards, confidence in anyone other than Jesus not only produces disappointment but ultimately brings destruction. Life is hard. And God’s people are certain to face opposition. But placing our confidence in Christ means that no matter what we face, He is sufficient, and we will not be ashamed.
In Philippians chapter 1, the apostle Paul exhorts the Philippians that their confidence is in Christ. Paul himself is in chains as he writes this letter to the also suffering church in Philippi. His heart-lifting words point us to the One who never disappoints. In this two-week study, Philippians: Confident in Christ, we learn alongside the Philippians that God’s saving work through the gospel continues in us and is our greatest source of strength and comfort in trying circumstances.
In week one, Paul states his confidence in Christ's work in the Philippian converts and assures them that Christ is faithful to complete His work in them. He expresses great affection for them and lovingly and boldly prays that they will be “filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ.”
In week two, Paul expresses confidence in the gospel's worth to weather the worst circumstances. Though Paul is imprisoned, his chains cannot hinder Christ’s cause. Therefore, he charges the Philippians to live and die courageously, knowing the gospel’s power cannot be stopped.
Philippians chapter 1 opens one of Paul’s most encouraging letters to God’s people. Through his words we learn that confidence in Christ is of greater value than earthly life itself—that no matter what happens in life, “to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Will you read this letter and let it encourage you to place all your confidence in Christ today?
