During last Saturday’s on-site service, Pastor Jeffrey Tay shared his message on being filled with the fruits of righteousness from Philippians 1:3-11.
I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me. God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus. And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.
Pastor Jeffrey highlighted the importance of being filled with the fruit of righteousness, coupled with a change in mindset. The body of Christ needs to stay united in spirit, with unwavering focus and commitment to Him, rejoicing in the Lord no matter the circumstances. On an individual level, this requires intentional and consistent efforts to stay close to God through prayer and obedience to His commands.
Paul, who was in prison, wrote to the church of Philippi to encourage them. He also gave them practical advice on how to live the Christian life.
Philippians 1:3 I thank God every time I remember you ...
A church that carries an attitude of thanksgiving is not easily swayed by circumstances. Rather, a heart of gratitude fosters a steadfast belief in the goodness of God. Knowing that God is good is essential to live the Christian life.
Philippians 1:6 ... being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
We are all works in progress. Each new day should be embraced with fervency for God, pushing boundaries to gain new ground for Him. Every day is an invitation to encounter God afresh; we should not rest on our laurels lest we want to remain stagnant. There is more!
Philippians 1:9-10 And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ ...
Spiritual maturity is not measured by biblical knowledge alone. True growth comes from loving others as Christ loved us, deepening our relationship with God and people. For God's kingdom to flourish, church unity is key. As the body of Christ, we ought to love one another. Unity does not mean full agreement with one another. While we may not see eye to eye on every single thing, it is imperative that we all agree on the direction we are are headed in: to advance the gospel. A church that hungers for righteousness and strives for excellence in service and love for others will be empowered to live and serve in unity, for God's glory.
Blessings,
Jenny
(on behalf of Diakonia)
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