Philippians 4:1-5
Signs of Strength
A doctor will make
observations about your health.
These observations come from a sincere examination.
Your family and friends will make
observations about your health.
These may not be as accurate, but they are usually sincere.
People who don’t know you will
make observations about your health.
These are not usually as trustworthy.
I know because I draw conclusions all the time.
When it comes to
spiritual health the same categories of examiners apply.
We have those who observe from the
outside, our friends and family and co-workers, and most importantly the Great
Physician.
Often times the
way Christ views us and the way we view ourselves are completely different.
This is why we need to let the
Holy Spirit examine our heart and our mind.
Examine me, search me, try me.
In these first
five verses of Philippians 4 we have six signs of strength for the local church.
Can we let the Holy Spirit examine
us, search us, and try us so we can see our health issues that need attention
and we can maintain those areas that are healty?
1.
v.1a) Sincere Love – This is first and foremost in the operations of a
local assembly. If the pastor
doesn’t love his work and his people it will be reflected in the attitude of the
church.
He called those he was ministering
to, “dearly beloved”, “longed for”,
“my joy and crown”. These are
evidences that Paul loved those he preached to.
We should too.
2.
v.1b) Stand Fast – don’t move, be sure of what you believe in and
practice.
In the Lord- The things that we stand on better be of God.
3.
v.2) Same Mind – unity, being on the same page.
4.
v.3) Share the Load – work together.
A church that shares the load will be able to grow more effectively.
5.
v.4) Shout the Victory- don’t let the outward praise die.
6.
v.5) Share the Message- let you testimony, your witness be seen of all
that God is in your life.
These are some
areas in the church that need to be under constant guard and constant growth.