NOTE to TTUF Readers:
You may have noticed that the publications of articles has slowed to a snail’s pace. Anne Kisly has been called away these last few years on very needful family situations leaving me to hold the fort, which I’ve been glad to do. Only now I’m facing some rather serious health issues involving cancer.
Your prayers are appreciated as the LORD leads me through these “troublesome waters”! Thank you and GOD bless you way too much!
INTRODUCTION: In the midst of his sufferings, incarcerations, loneliness and frustrations the apostle Paul is still focused on the needs of the saints, and in this case, the church at Philippi and in selfless service provides GOD-given counsel.
“Love suffers long and is kind…” (1 COR 13:4) and here this is aptly demonstrated by Paul. He is a willing and kind vessel of the LORD to be used for the blessings and benefits of others, regardless of any personal trials and tribulations he suffers.
In fact, it’s because of his sufferings that he becomes a more able minister to dispense comforts to his fellow sufferers with the same comfort that he himself is granted by the LORD (2 COR 1:3-6).
Paul inspires, instructs, directs and demonstrates in this chapter (and the epistle as a whole) the proper Christian conduct in the midst of suffering, persecution and abject circumstances that would avail in discouraging the saint, tempting them to quit.