It’s easy to make decisions based on fear or discouragement, especially when we feel the weight of suffering and difficult circumstances. But Paul calls us to remember the hope we have in Christ, and how that changes our outlook. Remember the argument he has been building over the course of chapter 1: desiring the advancement of the Gospel, Paul admits that as long as Christ is proclaimed he will rejoice and trust that God will listen to the prayers of the believers. With this in mind, consider Paul’s attitude towards his imprisonment.

Philippians 1.20

20 as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death.

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ Where does Paul’s hope and expectations come from?

+ What is his ultimate desire?

+ What does it mean to honor Christ in our bodies?

+ Does Paul see any circumstantial impediment to living out his desire?

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there a sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ How does my mentality about trials and difficult circumstances compare to Paul’s?

+ Do I have full courage from the hope I have in Christ?

+ What would need to change in my life to live with this wholehearted hope and courage?

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?

+ Are there people that I can speak encouragement to, people that I have “the affection of Christ Jesus” for?