You Can Make It

Introduction

There are many situation in life that make you ask the question, “how am I going to make it?” None of those realities will drive you to that realization quicker than losing someone near and dear. You won’t make it alone, but you will make it with help. I love the book of Philippians because it teaches us how to make it, and it teaches us how to make it. The Apostle Paul wrote this letter to the church at Philippi while enduring some harsh realities. Paul’s letter to this church is a good read for anybody searching for help during difficult times. But the approach that Paul takes is an unusual one when we compare it to the approach that many of us take when faced with difficulty. Paul, in this letter, does not dwell on his situation. Paul instead shows his appreciation for the friends that he has in Philippi, and the provision that God has provided. Paul’s approach and his intent in this letter is unique because he teaches us that even when things aren’t going our way, we can still find peace. What an encouragement it is to know that I can be down, but I’m not out. As Paul says,

2 Corinthians 4:8–9 KJV 1900

8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;

2 Corinthians 4:

Choosing to appreciate the brighter side of life will prevent you from suffocating during the darker days of life. We strain forward to what lies ahead, and press on toward the goal for the high prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Paul did not let his troubles become a hindrance to the race that was set before him. I would encourage you to grieve, but don’t give up. God has still been good to us.

I. Appreciate The People Around You

How do we find the strength to run in times of pain? We can mimic the Apostle Paul, by appreciating the people around us. Paul’s primary reason for writing the letter was to express gratitude to his friends in Philippi who had sent him a gift while he was going through what he was going through. Paul’s situation was much different. He might not be able to identify with you exactly, but he could identify with pain. In the midst of his angst and pain Paul had some friends who cared about him and were concerned enough about him to send him gift while he was ill. It would have been easy for Paul to become so consumed with his physical condition that he would have failed to appreciate the gifts and the giver. Instead, he was encouraged and comforted by the thoughtfulness of his friends. Understand that he recieved the gift while he was sick, and his illness persisted, yet he was thankful. During the Holidays, friends and family may visit to offer their support, and honestly there aren’t words that can heal your pain. They key is being thankful for their presence in the midst of your pain. It’s good to have people around you who care enough about you to come and see about you. But if you are fortunate to have your health, your family, and your life intact then it becomes your responsibility to check on someone who may need a friend. It doesn’t matter how strong and independent you believe yourself to be, at some point in time you’re going to need a friend. Paul says,

Philippians 4:10 ESV

10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity.

Philippians 4:

His rejoicing was indeed proof of his appreciation for the people around you. Thank God for the people who surround us when we get the phone call. Thank God for the people who surround us when we are burdened with the difficult task of making the arrangements. Thank God for the people who are around when it becomes our sad duty to commit this our beloved back to the grave: earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust.

II. Accept The Troubles Ahead of You

Deal with your troubles, don’t dwell on your troubles.

III. Trust the God Above You

Conclusion