Philippians 2:1-3 "If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, (2) Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. (3) Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves."
Paul had just written concerning "striving for the faith of the
Gospel," by which he intended for the Philippians (and you and me) to
pattern our lives according to the very Word of God. For the rest of this
beautiful book of Philippians, Paul is going to instruct us as to how we are to
exhibit our belief in the Word of God (striving for the faith of the Gospel).
In this second chapter, we see Paul beginning from the inside as to how we are
to accomplish our goal. It begins in our hearts and minds. If I do not have a
heart for other people, then our faith will be difficult to exhibit with our
actions. Yes, the God-given faith which we have will indeed give us
"consolation in Christ." There is much to be seen when we can
understand the meaning of words which are expressed in God's Word. The word,
consolation, carries the meaning of giving comfort. When you look at the root
of the word, we can see it gives the picture of calling a little one to your
side and placing your arm around him. I see the picture of a mother calling her
child to herself and putting her arms around him to say, "It's going to be
alright." The thought of touch and comforting words brings a peace
that is wonderful.
As I think of this consolation, I see my Lord and Saviour calling me to Himself
with outstretched arms. "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are
heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28) The Apostle
Peter certainly understood this great blessing and he would then pass the
encouragement along to those people who had been scattered into a strange land
because of their faith. Peter expressed it in this manner, "Humble
yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due
time: (7) Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for
you." (1 Peter 5:6-7) He understood this blessed truth because he,
himself, even after all his blunderings, had experienced the comforting
consolation of Jesus.
Have you ever needed consoling in your life? Where do you go to find
it? It isn't found in a bottle nor anything that is man-made. True
consolation is found through the love, mercy, and grace of our Lord Jesus
Christ. He stands with arms outstretched, saying, "Come to me."
Ask and you shall receive.