stephen R Harrison

(Read Philippians 1:7)

Early in life, my mom taught me to share. Maybe I should have said “told” me to share. This usually happened after I was being selfish with something. In return for her correction, I would reluctantly share what I had with others (if you can call that sharing). Paul told the Philippians he shared in God’s grace with them (1:7c).  God willingly gave to all of them what they did not possess in themselves. Grace!  What a beautiful thought – believers sharing something that God Himself gave them! 

What does it mean to share in God’s grace?  Paul uses the same word for share in Philippians 4:14, denoting they shared in His troubles. Paul and the Philippians shared something that needed God’s grace – persecution.  God’s grace is the ointment that heals our persecuted souls.  God extends undeserved favor, primarily His glorious presence, in our lives when we face severe consequences while furthering His Kingdom.  Paul would later write, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor. 12:9).  His grace satisfies, sustains, and strengthens us in our limitations and hopelessness.  God’s ultimate grace is the antidote for man’s ultimate weakness (sin)!

Paul told the Philippians that the same God has extends grace to him was the same God who would extend grace to them.  The same God extends the same grace to all believers!  We need more grace from God when partnering in the gospel with other believers.  The schemes of the devil and the resistance from the world seek to halt gospel endeavors.  Paul would later say, “But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me” (1 Corinthians 15:10). Although his efforts to advance the gospel were reasonable, Paul was powerless and ineffective without the grace of God.  He made him an apostle and used him in ministry despite his horrid past of persecuting Christians.  Praise God, who allows all who call on His name to share in His glorious grace as we advance His Kingdom!  This is the pinnacle of Christian fellowship!  May we never take His grace for granted, as it is essential for fellowship.

Questions for the Head (Think)

• Are you sharing in God’s grace because of partnering in the gospel with fellow believers? What gospel endeavors are you planning that need His grace?

Reflection for the Heart (Worship)

• Spend time thanking God for His grace.  Ask Him for more to be applied to your relationships with fellow believers so you can advance His gospel.  

Action for the Hands (Do)

• Paul and the Philippians shared God’s grace as they partnered in the gospel.  Plan a gospel encounter with another believer (witness to a friend, look for a local mission opportunity to serve and share Jesus, etc.).  Pray for grace before you go.  Discuss how you shared in God’s grace afterward.