Message Action Plan
Talk It OverPhilippians 1:12-30
Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the good news of Christ! Philippians 1:27
NO MATTER WHAT HAPPENS . . .
- REMEMBER GOD CAN BRING GOOD OUT OF ANYTHING.
We know that in all that happens, God works for the good of those who love him and are called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
I will praise the Lord no matter what happens. Psalms 34:1 (LB)
Paul's Example
I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that everything that has happened to me has helped to spread the good news. Philippians 1:12 (NLT)
ANYTIME I FACE A PROBLEM WITH FAITH…
-
- It's a witness to unbelievers.
For everyone here, including all the soldiers in the palace guard, knows that I am in chains because of Christ. Philippians 1:13
- It's a witness to unbelievers.
-
- It's an encouragement to believers.
And because of my imprisonment, many believers here have gained confidence and been encouraged to speak fearlessly in telling others about Christ. Philippians 1:14 (NLT)
- It's an encouragement to believers.
ACTION PLAN: Take a moment to remember a time when you were surprised to see God bring good from a bad situation. How bad did it seem at the time? What good came from it that you did not expect? Now, think about a difficult situation that you're facing currently. List some potential outcomes that could happen looking at it from God's perspective. Ask him in prayer to change your perspective to match his.
- NEVER LET OTHERS CONTROL MY ATTITUDE.
CRITICS:It's true that some others preach Christ because they are jealous of us, and they like to argue. Philippians 1:15
COMPANIONS (who care):Others preach from genuine good will. These do so out of love, and they know God's given me the work of defending the gospel. Philippians 1:16
COMPETITORS:Others preach Christ insincerely from a spirit of selfish ambition. Philippians 1:17a
CHALLENGERS:Others just want to stir up more trouble for me and add to my pain while I am in prison. Philippians 1:17b
Paul's Attitude
But it doesn't really matter! The important thing is that in every way, whether for right or wrong reasons, the message of Christ is being shared! So I am happy, and I'll continue to be happy! Philippians 1:18 (NCV)
Be fearless, no matter who opposes you. It will be a sign to them of their downfall, that God is with you, and that he will save you. Philippians 1:28 (NIV/LB)
For you have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for him. We are in this fight together. You have seen me suffer for him in the past, and you know that I am still in the midst of a great struggle. Philippians 1:29-30 (NLT)
No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (LB)
ACTION PLAN: Make a list of criticisms and challenges you've endured this past week. Which of these lingered with you longer than the others? Identify the sources of the criticisms and challenges. Then, list specific ways you could respond this upcoming week to keep your joy intact.
- TRUST GOD TO ALWAYS WORK THINGS OUT.
I will continue to rejoice, for I know that as you pray for me and as the Spirit of Jesus Christ helps me, all that's happened will all turn out for my deliverance. Philippians 1:19 (NLT)
It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage, now as always, Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death! Philippians 1:20 (ESV)
Do not let your happy trust in the Lord die away, no matter what happens. Remember your reward! Hebrews 10:35 (LB) - STAY FOCUSED ON MY PURPOSE, NOT MY PROBLEM.
If by continuing to live I can do more worthwhile work for Christ, then I am not sure which I should choose. I'm pulled in two directions! I want very much to leave this life and be with Christ, which is a far better thing; but for your sake it is much more important that I remain alive. I am sure of this, so I know that I will stay on with you all, so I can add to your progress and joy in the faith. Philippians 1:22-25 (TEV)
For me to live is Christ and to die is gain! Philippians 1:21
For Me to Live Is __________________________________________________________.
How YOU complete this sentence will determine your happiness.
ACTION PLAN: Fill in the blank above. Before you came to Christ, how would you have filled that in? Now that know him, how has that changed? Repeat out loud four times, Paul's words from Philippians 1:21. Put the emphasis on different words as you do this:
- "For ME to live is Christ!"
- "For me to LIVE is Christ!"
- "For me to live IS Christ!"
- "For me to live is CHRIST!"
Weekly Action Steps
We recommit our lives to Jesus Christ. Text NEWSTART (1 word) to 83000 or email newstart@saddleback.com
We express our gratitude to God for his goodness by giving back to him. Because of your faithful generosity, we have been able to provide food and supplies to over 600,000 people in Southern California during this COVID crisis. Give at saddleback.com/give.
We meet in small groups online to discuss what we have heard. To join a group, text SMALLGROUP to 83000, visit our website at www.saddleback.com/joingroup, or email smallgroup@saddleback.com.
To be baptized, email mYBAPTISM@saddleback.com.
Listen to our "Doable Discipleship" and "The Well" podcasts from our Saddleback Growth team at Saddleback.com/learn
