Philippians 1:18d-19a – Alive and Well

picture of a sailboat on the water illustrating that God's Spirit is like the wind (pixabay)

Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and God’s provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ… 

Summary: In this passage, Paul points to a higher power: the Spirit of Jesus. 

In this passage, Paul summarizes his letter so far and adds one important point: Success does not depend on him. 

The nature of God is defined by love (agapẽ). The Apostle John tells us, “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love” (1 John 4:8). 

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Colossians 3:2 – Things Above (Part II)

Picture of sign that reads "HEAVEN" pointing to the night sky

Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 

Summary: Understanding Paul’s thought about setting our minds on “things above” requires that we first understand what he means by “above.” 

If this sounds like a repetition of the last verse, it is … kinda. Paul repeats his thought, but instead of saying, “set your hearts on things above,” here he says, “set your minds on things above.” 

There is a difference! 

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