As you might have guessed from the first article in this newsletter, I am reading about Saint Paul’s life while he is imprisoned for teaching the Gospel of Christ. In this first chapter of Philippians, he says his time in prison is a blessing. He had been out on the road opening new churches and is now imprisoned for his faith.
Why would one think being in prison would be a blessing? Paul feels he is an even greater witness and testimony to the people he writes his letters to and that through his perseverance and non-complaining, the people he ministers to are even more inspired and committed in their faith.
Other religious and political prisoners have also made a great impact on others during their imprisonment, and I’m sure you can think of a few, like Gandhi and Mandela.
If you are feeling like living in this body during this challenging time feels more like an imprisonment than a life, you might also ponder how you have inspired and encouraged others to live passionately.
I know I have many stories of adversity and trusting in God to get me to the other side of a very difficult life circumstance. It is not always a pretty passage, actually it can be wrought with great difficulty but with faith and preservice I have always landed on my feet the better for it, and God has made the journey with me.
The big challenge is to stay in surrender and not have a strong idea of how the end result should look.
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him and have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
