“Heavy, Groovy, Insane,” Wow, what other metaphors could we use to describe the statement made by Paul while being imprisoned in Philippi; can you imagine any of us making that statement while being incarcerated and in chains no less? And I concur!
How many people facing incarceration, or being imprisoned become bitter, and resentful, giving up on life all together, but for Paul this was another opportunity to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul was not deterred by the circumstances of his imprisonment, no he turned a bad situation into a good one reaching out to the Roman soldiers who guarded him and he encouraged the Christians who were afraid of persecution.
Just like being in prison we have many opportunities to be discouraged, times of indecision, financial difficulties, family and church conflict, loss of work, and a plethora of earthly issues. The way we react and act to those situations just like being incarcerated reflects what we believe. Why not be like Paul and look for ways where we could demonstrate our faith even in bad situations. Even if our situation does not improve, you will notice that your faith will grow.
For you who are imprisoned remember that when we speak fearlessly for Christ or live faithfully for Him during difficult situations, we are encouraging others to do the same. Choose to be an encouragement by the way that we live. Especially when we reach to those behind the walls because despite the opposition you will find that some will listen and believe. Remember “the Word of God cannot be chained” (2 Timothy 2:9b NLT)
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