See Life from God’s Perspective

“Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel, so that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the whole praetorian guard and to everyone else, and that most of the brethren, trusting in the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear. Some, to be sure, are preaching Christ even from envy and strife, but some also from good will; the latter do it out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel; the former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition rather than from pure motives, thinking to cause me distress in my imprisonment. What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed; and in this I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice.” Philippians 1:12-18

A key to living above your circumstances is to lean on the faithfulness of Christ while refusing to be caught up in the stability of your surroundings. Paul used the analogy of a runner to explain how we are to respond to life’s circumstance (1 Cor. 9:24-26). We are to fix our gaze on the finish line and race will all our might toward that goal. Once God places a goal in your heart, never give up. Instead, move toward it with swiftness and courage.

Paul’s goal was to take the gospel message to Asia. Three completed missionary journeys proved he had a plan and purpose. Personal testimonies bear witness he achieved his goal, but not without cost. None of us completes the race of life without facing many trials and tribulations.

Paul had a wonderful system for bypassing negative thinking and potential defeat. He looked beyond his circumstance to the sovereignty of God. He focused on the positive results of his ministry, not the personal pain.

In the end, the trials Paul faced served to mature and strengthen his spiritual walk. Even though you are hard pressed on every side, Jesus will bring light to all you are facing. Trust Him and you will see His victory.