Passionate Indifference

"If only I had more time and energy, I could do so much more for the Lord!" "If our church building were bigger / more central / had a better kitchen, we could initiate so many outreach projects." "If our mission had more partners, if our leaders were more imaginative, if our donors were more generous…" Sometimes, our dreams are blighted by constraints and complications. Our prayers flag between gospel possibilities and situational barriers.

The Philippians may have been perplexed about Paul’s situation. Their beloved itinerant founder was grounded, his reputation compromised by the shame of imprisonment and by malicious rival preachers. His travelling plans and his vital pastoral input seemed to be sabotaged.

Understanding their disappointment, Paul models an attitude of single-minded confidence in God’s sovereignty. He has one yardstick by which to measure his circumstances: the progress of the gospel. He lifts their gaze from concern for him to what Jesus is doing. Evangelism has not been interrupted: in prison, every four hours, a new shift of elite guards at the heart of secular power hears the message. Opportunities are being taken outside prison to speak of Christ, even if some motives are questionable.

Turning to the future, his benchmark is the same. Quite simply and movingly, the focus is on what will advance the gospel. As he weighs up execution or release, he cannot decide which he prefers. The emotional language of longing, confidence, and joy contradicts any notions of indifferent stoicism or suicidal thinking. The centrality of Christ dominates his argument, his name appearing nine times to highlight his priorities and hopes.

With this one focus, Paul can be calm and trusting amid frustrating setbacks. It may not always be our problematic hurdles, but our half-heartedness or ego gets in the way of our effectiveness for Christ.

Respond in Prayer

Lord Jesus, forgive us for our half-heartedness. Forgive us for blaming others or circumstances for failures and frustrations instead of taking responsibility ourselves. Help us see where you are working and trust in your sovereignty. In your name, Amen.