Learning from Paul’s Prayer

Philippians 1:3-11 Paul is writing to a church that had a very special place in his heart. There are many special memories that are attached to this church. This is where he met Lydia and other ladies by the river when he was looking for a place to pray. Later he even started church in her house. It was in Philippi, after preaching the Gospel that they were thrown into the dungeon and after having been beaten, they sang praises to God and the stocks and the prison bars were opened. As a result, the Philippian jailer and his family were saved. The church there had often sent him support and encouragement. From Paul's prayer, we can gain insight into the character and condition of the church, Paul's perception of their needs, and the character and will of God for this church and people in general who fall under similar circumstances. We see in verse six that what God starts he finishes. There are some key truths that can be gleaned from these verses: that prayer is a primary element in a partnership with God; and that as we seek God in prayer, we can feel his heart. We see that God is people centered and as we reach out toward people, we move His hand. If God loves people so should we. Paul also reminds them that although they are a loving church that love needs to increase more and more. We see that that love needs to be focused and informed not just love in general. We need to see people where they are with their hurts, confusion, frustrations, joys, wants, and needs. Paul's purpose in his prayer is that we might be able to discern what is best and to be pure and blameless until he comes, and that we be filled with the fruit of righteousness. That fruit is the tangible byproduct of a righteous life.