Philippians 1:9-11 The Apostle Paul is writing from prison to a church that has a special place in his heart. They are the only church that has given substantially to his financial support. In chapter 4 of this letter, Paul commends them for their gifts. In Paul's prayer in the first chapter, the intent is not that they have missed the mark; but the desire is that they move from one level of maturity to the next. It is difficult to encourage someone who is not motivated at all. If, however, a spark of interest is detected, the tendency is to attempt to fan that spark in to flames. If a young person shows potential for sports or music, he's encouraged to be the best. This is where Paul is coming from. He is not saying, "You Philippians just aren't making the grade, get with it!" I believe that what he is telling them is, "You're good, but don't be satisfied with good, let God take you to the 'more and more'." There seems to be several things working here. First, things that do not grow begin to decline and lose their impact. Secondly, and I believe more important, is that the goal is not to just function to accomplish a task, but to grow in understanding and insight. The goal is to become a partner, a team player, a leader, that we become co-laborers with Christ. Jesus told His disciples, (John 16:16), "I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his masters business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you." With this understanding we learn where God is working and become part of it. We are able to discern what is best? He wants us to be filled with the "fruit of righteousness." Righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ. The "fruit of righteousness" is the yield of a life lived out in faith righteousness.

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