Message:  Get a Grip on Hope!

Text:  Phil 4: 4-13

• My (circumstances) do not (control) my (attitude)

Paul’s circumstances versus Paul’s attitude

(1)   He wrote from (Prison)

(2)   Some Christians had (withdrawn) from Paul 

(3)   Some of Paul’s (dreams) seemed in (jeopardy)

(4)The Philippian church seemed (divided)  

• (Who) is (with me) is more important than (where I am)

Christians have their hope set on two promises:

(1) God’s (power to deliver)

2 Corinthians 1:10 (NIV)
10He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us,

(2) God’s (greater purpose)

Daniel 3:17-18 (NIV)
17If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. 18But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.”

• (My Contentment) depends upon (My Focus)

Conclusion

(1)   (Rejoice) in the Lord (always)

(2)   (Refuse) to (worry) 

(3)   (Pray) hard

(4)   Keep (obeying the Lord)