By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo
Philippians 1:12-14 “Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.”_Paul was in prison for the gospel. Some fellow gospel ministers, out of jealousy, were happy that he was imprisoned. Instead of lament in bitterness and seek ways to get out of prison and live a ‘normal’ life like everyone else, Paul instead saw the good side of his imprisonment for which he was thankful. It helped advance the gospel. The whole palace heard the gospel. The other brethren were emboldened to preach the gospel without fear. Nothing happens for nothing. Whatever we go through has a purpose. The only challenge is that we only see the bad, negative unpleasant side of situations. Then we complain, murmur,accuse, counter blame. Hardly do people ask what the good and positive is from any situation of life. This is why we never give thanks for what we consider bad and yet there is so much it is accomplishing in us behind the scenes. What pains, confusion, unpleasant situations are you going through now? Suppose you ask what the good side of these troubles could be? Forget about blaming those who caused you the trouble for a moment. You would be surprised how much value it is adding to your life. What you thought was going to destroy you will actually make you more stronger and better. Like Paul, instead of lament you will rejoice in your chains and pains and truly give thanks in all situations. God never wastes situations. He uses all of them to make us more like Himself. _Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”__Psalm 23:4 “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”_Shalom children of God.