A life worthy of the gospel is a life that is lived for Christ and others – advancing the gospel even if it leads to suffering. Then may this be evident in all our lives – and may we endeavor to live this way knowing that to live is Christ and to die is gain.

May Paul’s prayer for the Philippians be our prayer as well – that our love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight so that we may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ. Let’s learn to put the priorities of the gospel at the center of our prayer life.

Paul’s heart was filled with joy because of their gospel partnership, because of his growing affection for them, and because of his confidence in the One who always carries it to completion the good work He begins. Then let’s continue to trust in the One who is sovereignly orchestrating our lives as we labor to advance the gospel – all for the glory of God.

Paul viewed himself as a slave of Christ and the church as God’s holy people – and this divine perspective led him to give thanks and pray for them with joy. Then may we learn to perceive ourselves and others the same way so that our love for God and this community will continue to grow more and more this year.