A Clear Perspective In Unclear Circumstances
Experiencing hardships is a normal part of life that can cause us to focus on negative feelings and anxiously anticipate negative outcomes. Being courageous followers of Jesus Christ doesn’t exempt us from these experiences and may, in fact, be the cause of them and our subsequent responses. During a difficult time in his life, Paul rejoices and models for us how having a Christ-centered perspective will help us to maintain a positive attitude and anticipate positive outcomes while having a positive influence on others.
Consider your responses to hardships. How differently do you respond as a believer compared to how you responded to hardships before finding and following Jesus?
What does having a Christ-centered perspective mean to you?
Have you ever experienced problems/difficulties specifically because of your commitment to Christ? How did you respond? Did you initially or eventually rejoice?
Read Philippians 1:15-18. How does Paul’s response, “But what does it matter? The important thing is…” impact your thoughts about focusing on what and/or who is most important?
Read Philippians 1:27. How can conducting ourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Jesus Christ have a positive influence on others?
How has being connected to the church helped you to rejoice during difficult times? Consider how you would share this with someone who is experiencing hardships.
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