My present address
Philippians 4:10~13 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through him who gives me strength. (12~13) Hymn for scheduled worship: Korean/English Hymnal #384 All the Way My Savior Leads Me (#434 in previous version) Are you standing before difficult problems? If you are in the midst of difficulties that have surfaced apart from your mistakes, then there is God’s absolute plan. Paul had not committed any crimes, yet was imprisoned. The letters he wrote in prison to the church of Philippi comprise the book of Philippians. Paul confesses a number of times in Philippians that he was filled with joy. What was Paul’s present address that allowed him to dwell in happiness despite living in a state of imprisonment?
1. Citizenship of heaven (Philippians 3:20)
Our present address and our background do not consist of difficulties such as imprisonment, but is the throne of heaven. Man was created to be with God. However, we were tempted by Satan and became separated from the Lord. From this point on, spiritual problems arose for mankind. Jesus Christ is the only way to meet God and solve your spiritual problems. Through Jesus Christ, we have received the gift of the background of heaven. If you believe that God’s kingdom is established wherever you go and you hold on to the spiritual truth, then despite the problems that you encounter, you have no choice but to reside in happiness.
2. All fields
If a problem has approached a person of God who dwells within Christ, then those conflicts become opportunities to receive answers and doors of evangelism. Regardless of the numerous problems around us, they cannot fell the children of God. The power and authority to save the field is bestowed upon the children of God who possess the background of God’s kingdom. When a child of God enjoys just a minuscule amount of Christ’s authority, the wondrous works of God begin to arise in all fields.
3. Within Christ
My present address is within Christ. I must not be deceived by my problems and reality. Our inadequacies and even our strengths are irrelevant. This is because I am within Christ who provides me with power. To be inside Christ is to connect with God and with God’s promise that He will never let us go. Therefore, Satan continuously attempts to deceive us. We must not be deceived by the methods of the devil and confirm our present address, for all the forces of darkness will be broken at that moment.
- Where am I right now? Deeply meditate upon your true present address. Genuine thanksgiving will overflow. We must stand strong and brave inside the one who gives us strength. Immanuel Church Sunday Worship 1st Service / 2012. 8. 12