I’m neck deep in studying Philippians for the summer Bible study Overcomer: 4-Weeks in the Book of Philippians which begins June 17. (Click here for deets).
I’m still aghast at the backdrop for this epistle known as Philippians.
Paul pens words of love and spunk to the church in Philippi.
This is a man whose passion for God flipped upside down on the road to Damascus. Amid gravel and dust, God intersects a zealot whose sole intent is to destroy the ragamuffin crew who are followers of The Way.
God blinds Saul to open his eyes.
Sometimes God dose the same to you and I…but that’s a conversation another day.
Saul becomes Paul.
With each passing year, Paul becomes a church planter and leader in The Way.
Paul zigzags across sea and land to deliver stunning news of the Messiah.
Until we find him locked up, uncertain if he’ll ever taste freedom again.
The good news spreads from an unfortunate place. The words of a scribe, the heart-felt expressions of an apostle, soon fan out across the churches of the ancient world and throughout the centuries.
They breathe life, hope, and wisdom to us, here, today.
Through Philippians, Paul doesn’t just teach us what it means to finish well, he embodies the message.
No matter the circumstances. No matter the challenges. No matter the uncertainty.
You and I can be overcomers. To. The. Very. End.
Sir Francis Drake’s prayer reminds of the importance of finishing well when he says:
“It is not the beginning, but the continuing of the same, until it be thoroughly finished that yieldeth the true glory.”
The unfolding glory of your story resides in your past, your present, and your future.
Like the unfolding petals of a magnolia, you must not stop half way. Or three-quarters. If you do, you hinder the glory that’s still to come.
How do you finish well?
It begins today. This day. Asking for the grace and strength and courage and tenacity to allow the fullness of God’s story to be written in and through you.
Remember: The richest glory of your life awaits in finishing well.
After all, that’s what Jesus demonstrated when he said, “It is finished.”
Let’s pause right now and make this our #1 goal today.
Take a deep breath and pray, “God, help me finish well.”
If you’d like to join me this summer for the Overcomer: 4-Weeks in the Book of Philippians, I’d love to play and frolic in Scripture together.
Starting June 17, we’re using The Color Method to study Philippians using Overcomer: 4-Weeks in the Book of Philippians.
This is a boutique printing available exclusive at margaretfeinbergstore.com.
You can pre-order the workbook, here (ships June 5).
Or if you live overseas, you can purchase and print your own downloadable copy here.
I’ll be popping on Facebook Live each week to explore Philippians. You can watch the replay at anytime.
This morning I decided to actually read this post, and I am glad that I did. “God, help me to finish well”. There is so much packed in that short sentence. First, and foremost, is the reminder that I need to call on Abba DAILY for He is the author (and finisher) of my life. Secondly, I need to be involved and intentional. Finally, at least for today, I can hold on to the hope that ‘this present suffering’ will end.
“I can hold on to the hope…” Amen!
Can’t wait to start this study in June! I have already pre-ordered…thanks for the preview today! Blessing to you. May we finish EVERY DAY well!
Wahoo! Excited for you to join us!
I still haven’t received my book which I pre-ordered. Have they shipped yet? I’m really excited about the study!
Looking forward to doing the study of Pillipian, would love to have the colouring book, but since I am in Canada with no printer, I will be happy to do the study. Thank you Margaret, love and blessings
Jannie, an overcomes.
Sorry for the error in my previous reply, to exited I guess, I am sure I will end well thru the study of Phillipians.
Looking forward to this study!! I always love your insights!
Thank you! Excited to go through this together this summer!
Thirty eight years ago Philippians was my mainstay as a new believer. Today I’m famished for more of this rich and encouraging book. So glad to be doing this study and honored to be studying along side one of my favorite people, Margaret Feinberg. Please pray that the extra copy purchased to give away will go to the person who will follow through and do the work.
Your book will be placed exactly where God wants it to be placed. I have seen Him change people’s heart through books shared with others. I have shared so many of Margaret’s books and have heard nothing but pure joy from those who’s lives have been touched. I will be praying that your friend will be blessed.
you can watch the full story of the Bible and Christianity in a complete movie package
Ordered my Overcomer book yesterday! Excited to begin the study as well. The Beloved study really touched my heart…..
Yay! So excited to hear that!