Most Christians know life is supposed to go on, joyfully, in spite of difficult circumstances. But most lack a proven role model to follow.

But such a model exists in the apostle Paul. Chained to an uncertain future in a Roman jail, Paul nonetheless wrote words of encouragement and hope to his fellow believers. Not only did Paul not complain about his difficulties, he found reasons to rejoice in them—mainly, that the Gospel was being
spread as a result of his confinement.

Paul’s epistle to the Philippians is a treasure chest of spiritual insights about how to rejoice in the Lord regardless of circumstances; how to live as a citizen of heaven in a world weighed down by daily difficulties. Joy is possible. Paul lived it and reminded the Philippians many times over in his short letter.

Suitable for individual or group study, Philippians: To Live Is Christ is an eightweek study of Paul’s letter to the church at Philippi. Daily lessons and weekly reviews are supplemented by background information on Paul and Philippi, application questions, quotes from Christian authors and leaders, reflective prayers, and helpful marginal notes.

It is possible to live in this world without Christ. But, as Paul writes, to really live is Christ. Only He provides the reason and the strength to rejoice when life says the opposite.