Delighting in Our Trials

But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which have happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel, so that it has become evident to the whole palace guard,and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ; and most of the brethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more bold to speak the word without fear...Phil 1:12-14

We had the second meeting of an 8 week series of our women's study tonight.  We are going through a study written by Kay Smith through the book of Philippians.  In tonight's study we learned that Paul, the author of the letter to the Philippian church, found joy in his circumstances and actually allowed the Lord to use him in two very specific ways.  One was to spread the message of the good news of Christ's sacrifice for our salvation to the prison guard and to the members of Caesar's court.  The second was to encourage believers to boldly share the message even in the midst of persecution. 

The women in my group all agreed that we were all inspired to share boldly with those within our sphere of influence.  Our family members, co-workers, even those that we come into contact with throughout our day. 

Lord Jesus, cause Your Holy Spirit to come upon us in power to share your good news with those around us.