Philippians 1

The initial motivation for studying the Book of Philippians came from wanting to enhance the study of one of Paul's Epistles with the background that came with knowing the apostle and his circumstances better after the studying Acts.

While that will definitely be the case, yet, it is interesting to find that this also applies to my area of focus this year.    Chp 1 gives us a beautiful example of what Paul prayed for the Philippians and his attitude towards them as he prayed.   It was clear that he loved them and was thankful for them; and when he prayed, he was filled with joy.   Also, as he prayed, he focused not so much on immediate concerns like we often do, but more on the eternal perspective, such as their growth in love through knowledge and understanding.   This clearly shows that Christian LOVE is not just a sentiment or emotion; but, is substantiated by knowledge of the Truth and understanding or discernment with Wisdom.   And, of all the things he could've prayed for them to abound in, he prayed that they would abound in LOVE.   I think that's tied to it being part of the two greatest commandments (loving God and loving one another) - that when we have this, all other things fall into place.  In practical application, it is true that we will love God and others more as we grow in knowledge of Him.

Throughout this passage is reference to the sanctification process - he referred to the believers as "saints" - set apart for God; he talked about God being at work in them starting from salvation and completing in glory, and he prayed that they may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ being filled with the fruit of righteousness that is imputed to believers through Christ.

And, of course, we can learn much from Paul's example of his joyful perspective despite his circumstances of being under house arrest in Rome.   He maintained humility, and viewed himself as a bondslave of Christ even though he was a respected leader and teacher.   He found joy in being thankful for and affectionate towards the Philippians.   He saw God at work advancing the gospel and using him despite his being in chains.

Through his perspective, he was able to "continue to rejoice", focusing on the message (that Christ is preached) rather than the motives of the messengers (those preaching from envy and rivalry hoping to cause trouble for him while in chains); and trusting that through the prayers of the Philippians and through the Holy Spirit, he would be delivered either by life or death. 

But, no matter what, he exhorted the Philippians to conduct themselves in a manner worthy of the gospel, manifested through unity, striving together for the faith of the gospel, not fearing the opposition, and suffering for Christ.