Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. - Philippians 4:8 –9 (ESV)

Proverbs 14:12 tells us, "There's a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death." This proverb is so striking because it shows how deceptive our perceptions of reality can be. Before believing in Christ, our ways of living led to death and we believed they were life. God is gracious to not only give us eternal life, but he shows us how we are to continue living as we wait for our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you. - Philippians 3:1 (ESV)

When you consider fighting for joy there seems to be multiple things that collude to regularly defeat it. Circumstances collapse on us, squashing joy. Stress and anxiety assault us and joy seems to retreat in defeat. Busyness tells us we don't have time to think about joy. All of these must be addressed to find joy.

But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself - Philippians 3:20 –21 (ESV)

A few weeks ago we sent out the State of Theology survey. It was helpful to get a snapshot of our congregation's thoughts and understanding about what the Bible teaches. If you didn't see the results, take a look.

I have thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, and your messenger and minister to my need, for he has been longing for you all and has been distressed because you heard that he was ill. - Philippians 2:25 –26 (ESV)

I recently learned a new skill. It's one that I have wanted to try for some time, but I've never had the occasion, equipment, and most importantly a teacher. A few weeks ago I tried welding for the first time. I'm not 'laying down dimes' as they say, but I can now stick a couple pieces of metal together in a pretty permanent way. Its fun and a little scary and I won't be leaving the pastorate for a career in fabrication anytime soon, but I would not have even attempted it without teacher (HT: to Ken S!)

I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you. - Philippians 3:14 –15 (ESV)

The story of the Bible is the one grand story of our creation, fall, redemption, and glory. It is a story filled with unexpected turns. It reveals the dark depths of humanity and the glorious heights of God's character. It covers from the very beginning to the very end of everything.

Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. - Philippians 2:12 –13 (ESV)

I'm thinking about starting a new program at Hope. I'm think of calling it the 'Tag-a-long' ministry. In this ministry, I'll come to your home and live with you for 72 hours. It won't be a teaching ministry. I'll just be around. I'll go with you to work and out on appointments. I'll just be there. Don't worry I won't get in the way.