Whatever Happens

ByJim Stephens

Scripture: Philippians 1

12 And I want you to know, my dear brothers and sisters, that everything that has happened to me here has helped to spread the Good News. 13 For everyone here, including the whole palace guard, knows that I am in chains because of Christ. 14 And because of my imprisonment, most of the believers here have gained confidence and boldly speak God’s message without fear. 27 But whatever happens to me, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News.  (Philippians 1:12-14, 27 NLT)

Paul said that his imprisonment in Rome had helped him fulfill his mission from God. It wasn’t easy, it wasn’t what he had planned or hoped for, but he wasn’t complaining! He also said that no matter what happens, we must keep on keeping on! Like Paul, I want to have an “everything that has happened to me” and a “whatever happens to me” attitude!

In Genesis 50, Joseph’s brothers came to him after Jacob’s death to confess their sin against him and plead for mercy. Joseph’s reply is a classic statement of faith in God and in God’s purpose “whatever happens.” Joseph told them, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people.” (Genesis 50:20 NLT)

Paul wrote to the Romans, “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”  (Romans 8:28 NLT)

Not everything that happens to me (or you) is always good. But if we stay on track and trust in our Good God, he will cause it to work toward his good purpose!

Everything that has happened to me has been for good! Not always for my good, but often for the good of others God loves. Whatever happens to me (and you), God will make good of it!

Prayer:

Father, Please help me to be a “whatever happens to me” kind of Christian. I love you and I trust you! My life is in your hands. In Jesus’ Name! Amen!