Key Verse: Philippians 1:12 

“But I want you to know brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel.” 

The older I get the the more I realize the importance of one’s perspective. The difference between having peace and anxiety, or joy and sadness is often dependent upon perspective. Paul teaches us this essential truth in Philippians 1:12. When Paul wrote this letter to the church at Philippi he was imprisoned in Rome likely awaiting his death. The church at Philippi was concerned about him, and they were extremely anxious about what would happen to the apostle they loved so dearly. When they looked at Paul’s imprisonment all they saw was a hopeless and depressing situation. Paul however saw something totally different. Paul writes and tell them his imprisonment, his pending death date, has actually opened the door for the gospel to get places it never would’ve gotten to had he not been imprisoned. In the next verse he tells them that all the palace guards and even those in the household of the emperor have learned that his bondage is because he is a follower of Jesus. They have heard the gospel. 

If most of us were in Paul’s shoes, we would’ve become swallowed up in sorrow. WE would be angry with God, and questioning His will. Paul however, chooses to look at the situation from a different perspective. He sees an opportunity to continue spreading the gospel! Friends, we need to adopt this perspective! We need to learn that even in our tough times God is still at work, and if we choose to look at earthly situations through a heavenly lens we will find hope, peace, and purpose even in our darkest times. Many of us are struggling with depression, anxiety, and hopelessness all because we won’t change our perspective! Look and see how God can use you even in your darkest times, and if you’ll do that you can find purpose and peace in any situation! CHANGE YOUR PERSPECTIVE!