Blogging for Light
I've been thinking for awhile about how to continue Bible study in the summer months (I'm in Bible Study Fellowship during the school year) and how to share my faith with others. Today an idea came to me--why not do a daily journal, with readings from the Bible and my thoughts on them? So today is my first attempt at this new blog. My other ramblings can be found at my Swansmith blog.

I thought Philippians would be a good book to start with. It's short, straightforward, and exudes joy in a troubling circumstance. Even though the Apostle Paul is near the end of his life, he writes joyfully to his brothers and sisters in Philippi.

Philippians 1:1-6 (NIV)

Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.


The church of Philippi had been receptive to the gospel Paul had preached there (see Acts 16) and had been generous in their support of him as he went out to minister elsewhere. He not only thanked them in his letter, but encouraged them as partners with him, and also pointing out to them that God was not finished with the good work he had begun in them.

Questions to ponder:

Do I receive God's grace and peace that he wants me to have on a daily basis?
Do others think of me with joy for how my life reflects the Lord's grace?
Do I remember that God sees the big picture--the whole tapestry, not only of my life, but of eternity? Do I realize that he is doing a good work in me, a work that is not yet finished, but one day will be?

Lord, help me be a vessel of your grace. Let me be a light to others, a reflection of your love. Help me not to become caught up in daily frustrations, but grow from challenges and trials, knowing that you are working to complete your good work in me. Amen
- posted by Suzi @ 9:34 AM