10/9/2026
Resting in Progress
Philippians 1:6
The Philippians were one of the first, if not the first group, of Jesus followers living under Roman rule. They were dedicated to Christ and his mission yet still living under persecution. This persecution caused them some concern about where they stood with God. In this letter, Paul is encouraging them to continue in faithfulness. One of the main points shows up in today's verse.
"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;" (NKJV)
Paul is reminding them that despite the current troubles, God will absolutely finish the work that he has begun. All this is coming from a prison cell. This book is known as one of the most joyful books in Scripture yet while Paul is imprisoned. He is living out his exhortations to stay the course despite temporary situations. Later in the chapter, he discusses how his imprisonment has proven to be a blessing because he had more opportunity to share the Gospel with unbelievers.
It's easy to get wrapped up in the things that are going on around us and lose sight of the bigger picture of what God is doing in and through us. I can look back at different times in my life when I questioned God's plan, His goodness, His faithfulness, etc. Every time, He showed up and I got to see how he makes a way out of my messes and dark times.
In my life it has helped me face current and future difficulties with a brighter outlook, knowing that He will finish His work in me. However, it doesn't remove the difficulties altogether. I've also walked with brothers and sisters in Christ through some dark times recently and it still breaks my heart to see the pain they deal with and the uncertainty before them. All we can try to do is share the good news that God will complete the work he started in them.
What area(s) of your life do you need to trust God with the outcome, understanding that He has a plan and He will complete that plan in you and your life?
Are you able to walk alongside someone else today and be the encouragement to them like Paul was to the Philippians?
Prayer
Lord God, Thank you for always having a plan for our lives, even our difficulties and dark seasons. Thank you for those reading this and their families. I pray that we can all have your eyes when it comes to our difficulties. Please remind us of the work you are doing and that you WILL complete it! Go before us today and keep us from sin and despair in the midst of our difficulties. We love you! Amen