Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles.
Philippians 4:14 NIV
Sharing Trouble
Can you get into trouble for watching a crime happen in Canada? The Criminal Code does not identify an obligation to report a crime. However, section 22 prohibits any person from counselling another person to be a party to an offence where that other person ends up being a party to that offence. Counselling a crime includes procurement, soliciting or inciting. In this instance, a person could be responsible under the Criminal Code for failing to report the crime.
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The ministry of the apostle Paul was never easy. He faced much opposition from religious and political leaders as he lifted up the name of Jesus. Eventually arrested, as a Roman citizen he appealed to Caesar and that led to all sorts of further challenges along the way. Towards the end of his epistle to the Philippians, he testifies that through everything he has found Jesus to be faithful and in this he has learned to be content in all situations. At the same time, he also recognizes the importance of having these faithful Christians in Philippi standing with him. He says, in Philippians 4:14: “Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles.” How important are our brothers and sisters in Christ who stand with us when we are going through difficult times. If you know another Christian who right now is facing difficulties, take time today to send them a note, or give them a call. Let them know you are there for them and take a moment to pray with them. This will mean more to them than you can imagine. That was certainly the case with Paul and the Philippians. Be like them for someone today.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley