From the desk of pastor Ben

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.     (Philippians 1:12-13) NIV

There are many events in life that we’d prefer would never touch us. I’m sure Paul felt that way about being chained in prison. After all, Paul had work to do, places to visit, and churches to encourage. Yet even in these frustrating and painful circumstances, he watched for ways to serve Christ with joy in the midst of it.
Our chains may look different than Paul’s. We may be held back by injustice in the workplace so we can’t accomplish our vocation — or at least can’t fully enjoy the work. Or injury and illness may keep our body chained to a hospital or to our home, when we long to be serving elsewhere. Depression or anxiety can chain our hearts, holding us captive and separating us from others.
Paul knew what it was like to live in chains. Yet, he knew the purpose: He was in chains for Christ. Even with frustrating limitations, he saw ways that Jesus was using those very circumstances to give him new ways to serve, new ways to advance the gospel.
I will never enjoy the chains in my life. Where I have choices, I will fight to improve my circumstances. When problems intrude that are beyond my control, I will find ways Jesus is at work — even in the hardship. Ultimately, Jesus will free us from all pain. But while we live here in this troubled world, we can trust Him to use our situation — even the chains and shackles — to bring freedom to others.

Faith Step:     What painful situation is holding you back? Ask Jesus to free you from those chains and in the meantime, give you ways to advance the gospel because of them.