A Whistle in the Dark?
It was a momentous announcement with repercussions around the world
A decision was made the like of which not been made since the 1950s and then it was made just once
Ambassadors were recalled home from two countries
The rapid increase of Chinese military build up; aggressive economic coercion against Australia ; threats as to Taiwan à what would have been thought impossible even a year ago..
USA and UK willing to bring Australia into nuclear fold as to nuclear powered submarines
Australia walking away from its contract with the French
The Labour Party solidly backing all of this!
This week’s BIG tri-nation security announcement speaks to national AND international anxiety
ANXIETY is something we all experience and it is good to be reminded from God’s Word as to the BEST REMEDY as to how we deal with it.
- A STRANGE COMMAND
- PRAYER: A KEY STRATEGY
- A PEACE THAT CONFOUNDS THE WORLD
Readings reproduced on this page:
The Holy Bible: New International Version. 1996, 1984. Grand Rapids: Zondervan
Readings
Philippians 1:12–30 (NIV)
12Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel.
13As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ.
14And 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.
15It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill.
16The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel.
17The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.
18But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice,
19for I know that through your prayers and God’s provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance.
20I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
21For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
22If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know!
23I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far;
24but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.
25Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith,
26so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me.
27Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel
28without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God.
29For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him,
30since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.
Text
Philippians 4:4–7 (NIV)
4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
6Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
