What's Your Attitude During Trials?

Philippians 1:12;27; 2:13: "Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel . . . . Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ . . . . For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose."

As I reflect upon these verses, I am reminded of Paul's desperate situation in a Roman prison. During this painful time, Paul used this opportunity to write letters to the Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and to Philemon. Paul mentions in Philippians 1:13-14 that his being in chains has resulted in everyone in the palace knowing that he is there for his allegiance to Jesus Christ, and his imprisonment has led to the brothers of the faith being even more resolved to "speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly."

So in Paul's understanding of his circumstances, he knew that this trial in his life was actually serving the cause of Christ; in fact, God was using this situation to bring about greater kingdom good in that the gospel was being advanced. He then encourages the hearers of his letter to conduct themselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. That is, they are to maintain their commitment to Jesus Christ, understanding the awesome privilege of being adopted by God into His royal family. This awareness will motivate the faithful follower to see all trials and tribulations as experiences that can be transformed into kingdom-building opportunities, no matter how painful and discouraging they may be. And although we are not pleased that these events arise, we nonetheless understand that our ultimate purpose for existence is to glorify God our Sovereign Creator, and praise His name for His greatness and His wonderful grace and mercy.

We must remember that it is God "who works in us to will and to act according to His good purpose." Thus, in Paul's situation, God had willed that these events in his life occur (i.e. imprisonment), so that His good purpose of advancing the gospel would occur.

In our life experiences, we know that difficulties will come our way. Sorrow for these events is a natural emotional response to these losses (see Paul's response concerning Epaphroditus in 2:27); still, we are able to know through our intimate association with our Lord that He is orchestrating something that will accomplish great things for His kingdom.