Philippians, Day 1 Readings

Torn Between Two Worlds     

Today's reading is the beginning of Paul's letter to the church in Philippi, which was written while Paul was imprisoned in Rome.  Imprisonment was only the most recent way in which Paul had suffered while preaching the gospel.  Writing this letter, he reflected on the many hardships he had faced and determined that it was all for God's glory -- through his perseverance, Paul was able to continue to teach new people about Jesus.

From this experience, Paul believes that he has come to appreciate the best way for Christians to approach suffering, which he is trying to exemplify to the Philippians.  On the one hand, Paul holds on to the promise of a heavenly life with Christ beyond this world; on the other, he understands that his continued preaching is helping more people to become -- or remain -- faithful Christians.  Both are very good things, and Paul finds satisfaction and even joy about his life on earth, despite the obstacles he has faced,and the promise of eternal life with God.

Read Philippians 1:1-26  (NIV)   (NRSV)   (CEB)

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Reading the Bible in Its Entirety

If you are planning to read the Bible in its entirety, you should read Philippians 1:1-26 today.