Strategic Prayer - 40 Days For Life

(I gave this message on February 25, 2020 at the Kick Off Rally of theFort Lauderdale 40 Days For Life Prayer and Fasting Vigil. You may view the PowerPoint slides that accompany this message on Microsoft OneDrive Here. You may sign up for MS OneDrive for free Here.)

As the prayer and fasting vigil begins tomorrow I want to share a few thoughts about strategic prayer. According to the Florida Agency For Health Care Administration, 9,864 unborn children were killed by abortion in Broward County in 2019. That is an average of 27 children per day. They were our neighbors. This is the reason we meet here tonight. This is the reason for the 40 Days of prayer and fasting.  

I want to note with you tonight seven things to help us as we engage in strategic prayer. First of all, we must recognize the enemy Jesus identified as the enemy in John chapter eight. He was engaged in a conversation with the some of the religious leaders. Jesus said, "As it is, you are determined to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God." He went on to say as recorded in John 8:44, "You belong to your father, the devil...He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of all lies."

In this passage, Jesus identifies the two key roles of Satan in our world today. His job description, if you will. He is a murderer from the beginning, a liar, and the father of lies. How successful has he been? in the State of Florida, 71,908 unborn babies lost their lives to abortion in 2019. It is estimated that between 40 and 50 million unborn children are killed by abortion worldwide each year.

Satan is a liar. Deception proliferates in the abortion industry. In fact, deception characterizes the abortion industry. Satan is "a murderer" and "a liar and the father of lies". These two attributes expose Satan as the Architect of Abortion. Satan has been very successful in carrying out his agenda. Jesus described Satan's agenda it in John 10:10, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy." Therefore, this evening in order to pray strategically, please beware that abortion is a Satanic Enterprise.

As Pastor Randy Alcorn has written, “According to the Scriptures, there are spiritual beings present here, righteous angels and fallen angels, and we are under attack. There is a battle for our minds, and a battle for our souls: It’s not fiction, it’s not imagination; it’s revealed reality. There is great spiritual warfare associated with the issue of abortion." (ProLife Answers to ProChoice Arguments, pg. 353)

Secondly, as we pray strategically let's begin with repentance. Repent of the Church's complicity with abortion. 1 Peter 4:17  "For it is time for judgmentto begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?" (NIV)  We must repent of abortion in the church and the silence and ambivalence of the church to the abortion crisis.

43% of women having abortions identify themselves as Protestants, 27% as Roman Catholics. (AGI, “In Brief” July, 2008)"76% of women indicate local churches had no influence on their decision to terminate their pregnancy". ("Study of Women Who Have Had An Abortion and Their Views On Church", CareNet/Lifeway)  

Thirdly, as we pray strategically, let us note the work of the enemy in the hearts, lives and minds of those we are praying for. I remind you this evening that the advocates of abortion are not the “enemy". Dr. Harvey Roth and Dr. Loss the abortionists next door, and the staff at the Fort Lauderdale Women's Center, clients at the abortion clinic and all those associated with the killing of the unborn and those who defend the right of a woman to kill her unborn are not the enemy.

Paul further describes the spiritual forces at work when he wrote of the unseen reality behind this kind of evil, "...our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12, NIV).

You see tragically those involved in the abortion industry are themselves the casualties of Satan's deception and evil schemes. To the Corinthian church Paul wrote, “The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.” (2 Corinthians 4:4, NIV)

Writing from prison in Rome where he was in chains awaiting execution by the Emperor Nero the Apostle Paul writes Timothy instructing, him how to deal with those who oppose the truth and exposing how the devil has trapped and taken them captive. 

“And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.” (2 Timothy 2:24-26,  NIV)

That is the work of Satan deceiving those participating in abortion and those defending abortion. Paul wrotethat the Christians at Colossae had been "…rescued…from the dominion of darkness and brought…into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." (Colossians 1:13, NIV)

This is the spiritual condition of all of us apart from the saving grace of God through faith in His son Jesus Christ. Do you see the spiritual condition of those who do not know the truth or have turned away from the truth? God can reach them through our prayers. 

Fourthly then, as we pray strategically, what should guide our response, what should characterize out attitude toward those for whom we pray and those who oppose our efforts? 

"Do not repay evil with evil or insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing." (1 Peter 3:9, NIV)

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves."(Philippians 2:3, NIV) 

This is an opportunity for us to realize that but for the grace of God anyone of us could be working at the Fort Lauderdale Women's Center. But for the grace of God anyone of us could be visiting the clinic as a client of their services. The Apostle Peter wrote, 1 Peter 5:5b  "All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.'" (NIV)

Fifthly, as we pray strategically, note God's provision to engage the Satanic forces in this prayer vigil.How do we intercede on behalf of the unborn whose lives are at risk at the Fort Lauderdale Women's Center and the mothers, fathers, boyfriends, husbands, grandparents and others who bring them to the clinic? How do we pray for the abortionists and their staff at the clinic?

Note with me that we are equipped with God's promises and God's power for this prayer vigil, the Word of God and the power of the Holy Spirit. Do you remember the temptation of Jesus by the devil recorded in Luke 4:1ff?

"Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the desert, where he was tempted by the devil."The devil tempted Jesus three times. and each time Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit responded by quoting the Scriptures. The writer to the Hebrews says, "For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account."(Hebrews 4:12-13, NIV)

As you stand and pray at the clinic, remember these astounding words from the Apostle Peter.

"His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires." (2 Peter 1:3-4, NIV)

Through the promises of God we have access to the power of God. The two always go together as His provision for the task before us. Notice the Apostle John's words, "The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil's work."(1 John 3:8, NIV)

Then listen to this bold statement by the Apostle Paul. "For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over ever power and authority." (Colossians 2:9, NIV)

Remember Paul's words in Ephesians chapter six about the powers and authorities that we struggle with? He continues in Colossians 2:15, "...having disarmed the powers and authorities He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross."(NIV) Do you see the authority Christ has over every demonic power? His authority is unrivaled. He has conclusively defeated the demonic forces behind abortion.

Sixthly, strategic prayer relies on the work of the Holy Spirit. In John 16:7-11 Jesus promised "Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; concerning judgment, because the ruler of this  world has been judged." (ESV)  or "stands condemned." (NIV)

Claim this work of the Holy Spirit as you pray at the clinic! He can take the messages on the signs you hold and bring conviction of sin, righteousness and judgment. He can bring to remembrance truth that the clients have heard or read sometime in the past and bring conviction of sin. While we do not have personal access to the clients, nor to the clinic workers, nor can we physically prevent the abortionist from carrying out their deadly procedures, we can rely on the ministry and even intervention of the Holy Spirit as we intercede for them from the sidewalk. His Spirit can access the hearts of those behind closed doors out of our sight. 

Abortion is a gospel issue. This is the inescapable truth that the Church is still wrestling with and to a large degree has failed to understand and respond to. There is a political fight to be fought. There are social implications to be wrestled with. But first and foremost, when seen through a Biblical paradigm, abortion is a spiritual issue.

The battle will be won or lost depending on the Church's response. The enemy has been identified. His strategy has been exposed. Our weapons have been issued, the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Word of God and the power of the Holy Spirit. He waits for His body the Church to enlist and engage the enemy.

I have been saying this for years now. The Body of Christ, the Church, is the only organism (or institution) spiritually equipped to engage the satanic forces behind abortion. Therefore the Church must take the lead in the efforts to end abortion. 

Paul said as much in 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (NIV). 

"For though we walk in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension [lofty opinion] that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." 

Lastly, during this prayer vigil strategically there will be praying and fasting. I close with these words to encourage you in the fast. In 2 Chronicles 20 we have the account of the response of King Jehoshaphat of Judah when his nation faced a crisis. A massive army from Edom was headed his way. It was a challenge that was humanly speaking insurmountable. 

Let me share with you Jehoshaphat's first response in the face of the approaching army that threatened his nation and people. He called a fast. It is recorded in verse two of chapter twenty, that some men came and told Jehoshaphat, "A vast army is coming against you from Edom... Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to enquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah. The people of Judah came together to seek help from the Lord; indeed, they came from every town in Judah to seek him."(NIV)

Fasting means to deny oneself something that is a legitimate part of your life for the purpose of seeking God. Fasting from food or drink is common. But one can fast in many different ways. When I fast, this is what motivates me, "I need God more than I need food."

Why did Jehoshaphat call a fast? Note two reasons. First of all, fasting communicates urgency of desire. In verse three it says that Jehoshaphat was “alarmed” and "afraid”. 

Arthur Wallis, in his book God’s Chosen Fast writes, “When a man is willing to set aside the legitimate appetites of the body to concentrate on the work of praying, he is demonstrating that he means business, that he is seeking God with all his heart, and will not let God go unless he answers."

The second thing we learn about fasting from King Jehoshaphat is that fasting communicates dependence onGod. I like the New Living Translation of 20:12. "O our God, won't you stop them? We are powerless against this mighty army that is about to attack us. We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help." In other words, it's like saying to God, “We are helpless!”, "Our back is up against the wall.", "You’re the only one we can turn to for help!”

The prophet Azariah spoke the word of the Lord to Jehoshaphat's father King Asa years before after the Lord gave the king a great victory over a similar powerful army. I believe his words are the theological basis for fasting “The Lord is with you when you are with him. If you seek him, he will be found by you” (2 Chronicles 15:2, NIV)

Pastor K. Neil Foster has written, “Fasting is the quickest way to get yourself into the position where God can give you what He wanted to give you all along." You see, Fasting is an invitation for God's intervention." 

Fasting provides an opportunity for God to demonstrate His supernatural power. In other words for God to do what only God can do. Through fasting God will bring His resources into the battle to end abortion. Through fasting God will intervene in America's abortion crisis. Through fasting God is glorified because He gets all the credit. 

Pope John Paul II, in his Gospel of Life writes,"Jesus Himself has shown us by His own example that prayer and fasting are the first and most effective weapons against the forces of evil (cf. Mt 4:1-11). As He taught His disciples, some demons cannot be driven out except in this way (cf. Mk 9:29). Let us therefore discover anew the humility and the courage to pray and fast so that power from on high will break down the walls of lies and deceit: the walls which conceal from the sight of so many of our brothers and sisters the evil of practices and laws which are hostile to life".

Rev. Flip Benham, then president of Operation Save America, in a Press release on January 20, 2011, said, "Abortion will come to an end, when the Church of Jesus Christ makes up her mind it will come to an end – not a second sooner. The responsibility for ending abortion in America rests squarely upon the shoulders  of the Church of Jesus Christ.”

As you participate in the 40 Days Prayer and Fasting Virgil, you are helping to make that come true. 

© James P McGarvey All Rights Reserved

Forming a Gospel-Centered Response to Abortion

Forming a Gospel-Centered Response to Abortion

The challenge we face:

412 million abortions worldwide in 2019*

61,628,584 abortion since 1973 in the USA **

70,912 abortions in Florida in the year 2019 ***

"What does Christianity look like in a nation that murders its own children?"

~ Pastor Rusty Lee Thomas****

Sharing the truth of the sanctity of human life

76% of women indicate local churches had no influence on their decision to terminate their pregnancy*****

     The spiritual battle behind abortion                                            

     Abortion the Devil & the Church-Exposing the Spiritual Forces Behind   

     Abortion - John 8:44; 10:10; Psalm 106:37-38****** Read, watch or listen Here

  The Biblical case for life (creation, image of God, dominion, personhood)

    The Sanctity of the Unborn - Genesis 1:26-28; Psalm 139:13-16****** Read Here

   

    Pro-Life Apologetics - defending life in a secular culture

    The Scientific, Philosophical & Metaphysical Case for Life****** Read Here

        

    The clash of two worldviews behind the abortion debate

    How Valuable are the Unborn to God? Romans 1:25****** Read Here   

    

    Abortion and the doctrine of Blood Guilt

    How Should I Respond to the Shedding of Innocent Blood?

    Genesis 3:15; 4:8-10; 9:5-6; Deuteronomy 21:1-9****** Read/listen Here                                   

    A compassionate response to the plight of the unborn                                       
    Are Unborn Children Our Neighbors? ****** Read Here                                                                                                     
     Image of God
    Created in the Image of God 
     Genesis 1:26-28; 2:7; Romans 1:18-25 ****** Read/listen Here

Ministering forgiveness, healing and hope to the post-abortive 
52% of churchgoers who have had an abortion have no one at church who knows they have had a pregnancy terminated*****                                                                                                 

Nearly two-thirds of women having abortions say they are Christians (Focus on the Family 2015)

35% of Christian women who have had an abortion indicate they currently attend church once a week or more*****

23% of Christian women who have had an abortion consider themselves to be an evangelical Christian***** (250,000 evangelical women abort their children each year)  

65% report symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder they attribute to their abortions.*******         


Footnotes:
* LifeNews.com 12-31-19
** LifeNews.com 01-10-2020
***See State of Florida Abortion Data - Induced Terminations of Pregnancy [ITOP] Reports (by county)                                                                                                                      
**** Field Manual for Abortion Ministry, 2014 - Free download from Operation Save America website                                                                   
***** Study of Women Who Have Had An Abortion and Their Views On Church CareNet - Free download 
****** Churchforlife.blogspot.com This message is available online - see side bar indexes 
*******Rue VM, et al

Post Abortive emotional problems: 
anxiety/panic; grief/Loss; fear of losing your child; guilt; self-hatred; depression; anger/rage 

Post Abortive Behavioral problems: 
drug/alcohol/child abuse; promiscuity; eating disorders; protective parenting; inability to bond with children 

Responding with practical Gospel centered compassion  
Luke 10 - "Love the Lord your God...and love your neighbor as yourself." The lawyer asked, "Who is my neighbor?" Jesus replied, the traveller left for dead. What is love? Jesus, it is "Samaritan compassion." "Go and do likewise." According to Jesus our salvation has a moral imperative built into it with regard to the needs of those around us, our neighbors - those vulnerable to choose abortion, the 62,731 unborn murdered by abortion each year (in Florida), and the post-abortive. "Loving my neighbor will occasionally arrest me, and maybe even require me to help prevent someone from being murdered." ~ Pastor John Ensor (Innocent Blood)

The Church for Life online resources: 
The Church for Life website - see right side bar for messages & resource indexes 
The Church for Life on Facebook 
Linkedin 
Jim McGarvey Biography & Ministry Credentials

Online - Pro-Life Websites and Bibliography

Some of the churches where I have brought sanctity of human life messages:                        

Calvary Chapel Pompano Beach, FL - Ken Kerrigan
Calvary Chapel Deerfield Beach, FL - Rian Gittman
Calvary Chapel Coral Springs, FL - (formerly Gus Flores)
Calvary Fellowship Freewill Baptist Church, Hollywood FL
Cathedral Church of God (COG Cleveland TN), Deerfield Beach, FL - (formerly Eddie Solomon)
Community Alliance of S. Florida (Brazilian) - Eddie Dutra
Community Baptist Church, Stuart, FL - Phil Smith

Eglise Haitienne Bethanie C&MA - Port St. Lucie - Cherubin Thelusma

Faith Bible Church, Deltona FL - Zach Coleman
Fellowship Baptist Church, Hixson, TN
First Baptist Church Stuart, FL - Darrell Orman
First Baptist Church Oakland Park, Oakland Park, FL - Merlin Berkey 
First Christian Church Wilton Manors, Wilton Manors, FL - John Stauffer 
Hollywood Hills Alliance Church, Hollywood, FL - Tim Williamson 
Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church, Pompano Beach, FL - Robert Stanley 
Jesus Is Lord Worship Center, Miami, FL - Verbert C. Anderson

Jesus Supernatural Life Center, Pompano Beach, FL - Gary McLamore
Moorepark Community Church, Three Rivers, MI - (formerly Ken Miller)
Mount Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, Pompano Beach, (formerly Alonzo Neal) 
New Hope Community Church (C&MA), North Port, FL - Eddie DeJesus 
New Hope Fellowship (Nazarene), Palm City, FL - Gary Durham 
New Life Baptist Church, Davie, FL - Mark Coleman
New Life Romanian Baptist Church, Hollywood, FL - Florin Vancea 
Piedmont Park Alliance Church, Tallahassee, FL - Chris Greaves 
Pines Baptist Church, Pembroke Pines, FL - Luis Acosta

Plantation Baptist Church, Plantation, FL - Tom Hunter
Restoration Outreach Church & Ministries, Miramar, FL - Gerard Bishop
Riverside Church, North Lauderdale, FL - Brian Brookins
The Harbour Church, Pompano Beach, FL - Darren Davis
The Lighthouse Chapel (C&MA), Port St. Lucie, FL - Jeff Norus
Tropical Farms Baptist Church, Stuart FL - (formerly Lee Fielder)
Westwood Church, (C&MA), Orlando FL - Dan Hall
Worldwide Christian Center, Pompano Beach, FL - O'Neal Dozier

Other venues:
40 Days for Life - Fort Lauderdale Campaign - Cast the Vision - September 2012
40 Days for life - Fort Lauderdale Campaign - Kick Off Rally - September 2012
40 Days for Life - Fort Lauderdale Campaign - Mid-Point Rally - October 2012
40 Days for Life - Fort Lauderdale Campaign - Kick Off Rally - February 2020
40 Days for Life - Fort Lauderdale Campaign - Mid-Point Rally - March 2020
Faith Forum at Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale FL
Florida Baptist Children's Home SOHL Regional Training, Miami FL
Florida Right to Life 2013 Pro-Life Leaders Forum, Orlando, FL

Florida State University Noles 4Life, Tallahassee, FL 
Flourish 2016 Conference (Catholic Witness), Fort Lauderdale FL
LifeChoice Pregnancy Center Banquet, Winter Haven FL
Nova Southeastern University Students for Life, Davie 
Tampa Bay ProLife Alliance, Tampa FL
Three Rivers Pregnancy Helpline Center Banquet, Three Rivers MI
Trinity Baptist College, Jacksonville - Chapel - Jeremiah Stanley, Dean of Students 
Trinity College, Trinity - Chapel - Al Depoutot, VP Student Development  
Trinity International University, Davie - multiple class lectures
Westminster Academy, Chapel, Fort Lauderdale FL
 15th Annual Pregnancy Care Center Conference, Lake Yale FL
South Florida Bible College & Theological Seminary, Deerfield Beach FL

The Church for Life

Helping the Church form a Gospel centered response to America's                          abortion crisis as it:

- leads the nation in prayer to end abortion

- communicates the message of the sanctity of human life

- ministers healing and restoration to the post-abortive

- provides compassionate and practical help to those at risk for abortion.

                       

                                                                                                                

Thanksgiving Living - Philippians 4:4-20

(I gave this message at Pines Baptist Church, Pembroke Pines on November 24, 2019. You can listen to the message under the title "Thanksgiving Leads to Thanksgiving" online at sermonsonline.com here.) 

This week we celebrate Thanksgiving Day. For many of us when we think of Thanksgiving we remember that group of 50 Pilgrims who gathered in October of 1621 in Plymouth Massachusetts to express thanksgiving to God for their first harvest ten months after arriving in the New World in December of 1620. 

The first Federal Thanksgiving Proclamation was made by President George Washington on October 3, 1789. Part of the proclamation reads a follows: 

"Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection, and favors...Now therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th Day of November next, to be devoted by the People of the States to service of the great and glorious Being, who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be; That we may then all unite in rendering unto him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country...and for all the great and various favors He has been pleased to confer upon us."

243 years later, on October 3, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a nationwide Thanksgiving Day, declaring that it would be a day of "...thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens." 

On December 26, 1941 the United States Congress established the fourth Thursday of November as a legal public holiday known a Thanksgiving Day.

I’m not sure that Thanksgiving Day is observed by everyone as it was originally by the Puritans. Nor is it always celebrated as day set apart to both recognize and give thanks to God as reflected in the two presidential proclamations I just read to you. 

I googled "Thanksgiving Day" and clicked on , "What is the meaning of Thanksgiving Day?" "Why do we celebrate Thanksgiving Day", and 'What does Thanksgiving really mean?" and there was no mention of giving thanks to God at all. No mention of WHO we are to give thanks TO on Thanksgiving Day.

 This Thursday we can acknowledge, as the Pilgrims did 398 years ago, and as President Washington and Lincoln noted in their proclamations, that this is a day to both acknowledge and give thanks to our God for his provision and blessings. 

One of the challenges we face as believers is living a lifestyle of thanksgiving to God. Hence the title of the message "Thanksgiving Living". This morning I want to share some thoughts with you from the Apostle Paul regarding thanksgiving from the fourth chapter of his letter to the Philippian church. 

You might remember Paul's first visit to the city of Philippi as recorded by Luke in Acts chapter 16. Luke writes that Paul had a vision of a "man of Macedonia...urging him and saying, 'Come over to Macedonia and help us.'"

And that is exactly what Paul did arriving in Philippi a leading city of Macedonia and a Roman colony where he planted his first church in Europe. He met Lydia, a "seller of purple goods" there by the riverside and led her and her household to the Lord. He cast out the demon of a slave girl who was a source of income as a fortuneteller for her slave owners. This led to the arrest of Paul and his companion in ministry, Silas. 

They were beaten and imprisoned. God then set them free by a great earthquake. Subsequently, the jailor and his family were converted. 

And now years later, towards the end of his life Paul writes a letter to the Philippian church this time from a Roman prison. Sean McDonough explains one of the reasons Paul wrote the Philippians.

"He was...eager to thank them for their continued support. Imprisonment carried with it a social stigma, and it would have been easy for the Philippians to turn their back on Paul at this point. But they had remained faithful to him."

This is the background of Paul's letter to the Philippian church. And as we look at the subject of thanksgiving living, I want to focus our thoughts on four things in this text. You will find them on the outline in your bulletin. Joy - Prayer - Contentment and Provision. 

What does joy have to do with thanksgiving? What role does prayer play in thanksgiving? How is contentment important to a life of thanksgiving? What provisions has God made for living a life of thanksgiving? 

Philippians 4:4-9,  (ESV)

"Rejoice in the Lord always, again I will say, Rejoice. Let you reasonableness [or gentleness] be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand [or near], do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication [petition] with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me--practice these things and the God of peace will be with you."

Let me pause here and share something personal. I have been going through some challenging times for the last several months, and I will admit that I have struggled to live consistently in the truth of Paul's words to us. As I prayerfully considered what message to bring today, one of the reasons I chose this message was because I needthis message! 

In verse 9, Paul encouraged the Philippians, and encourages us, not only to practice his teaching but to follow his example. So let's focus on those four words, joy - prayer - contentment - provision as we consider Thanksgiving Living. 

First of all joy, verse 4, "Rejoice in the Lord always, again I will say, Rejoice." 

I think we all know what it means to rejoice. To be joyful, to be glad (The Analytical Greek Lexicon) Here in verse four it is a present imperative, in other words, it is a command to continuously rejoice in the Lord. D. A. Hayes says the book of 

Philippians "...is the Epistle of Joy." The title of A. T. Robertson's commentary on the book of Philippians is Paul's Joy in Christ. Writing about this letter to the Philippians, the German theologian Bengel said, "The sum of the epistle is, I rejoice; rejoice ye."

Remember, Paul wrote these words while a prisoner in Rome! That fact alone is instructive, but not surprising. D. A. Hayes explains, 

"Paul was a man whose spirits were undaunted in any circumstances. He might be scourged in one city and stoned in another and imprisoned in a third and left for dead in a fourth, but as long as he retained consciousness and as soon as he regained consciousness he rejoiced. Nothing could dampen his ardor. Nothing could disturb his peace. In Philippi he had been scourged and cast into the inner prison and his feet had been made fast in the stocks. His back was bleeding and torn; his ankles were swollen and paining him; he could not lie down; he could not sleep. It was too dark in the dungeon for him to see anyone, but he could hear the voice of Silas somewhere near him in the midnight gloom. Some men would have been depressed under these circumstances, and the prison damp and darkness would have chilled their very souls. It was not so with Paul. He began to sing hymns of praise to God, and Silas joined in. " (The Epistle to the Philippians, pg.421) 

Under these dire and painful circumstances Paul and Silas held a midnight worship service! And Luke adds, "...and the prisoners were listening to them." 

What does rejoicing in the Lord have to do with thanksgiving living? Well, note that Paul says we are to rejoice in the Lord. Ralph Martin explains, "In the Lord is the governing factor in the exhortation. It is the Philippians' faith in the Lord which makes rejoicing in the throes of opposition a glorious possibility." (Philippian Studies, pg. 167) 

Beth and I have had three new granddaughters added to our family this year, one in January, February and September. And it has been so easy to rejoice in the birth of these three precious babies. The joy experienced in meeting them holding them, loving on them has been effortless. 

But Paul says rejoice in the Lord ALWAYS. While it is easy to rejoice with the birth of three new granddaughters, rejoicing in the midst of overwhelming, even painful circumstances, as was the case of Paul and Silas, is another matter. Jac Muller notes that Paul's instruction to "rejoice in the Lord always" is a command. He writes, 

"Not circumstances decide whether there will be joy, but in the Lord, in living fellowship with him, the believer can and must rejoice under all circumstances. Hence the apostle's repetition of the exhortation: 'Rejoice!'" (New International Commentary pg. 140) 

I believe to "Rejoice in the Lord always" is an act of worship. I believe it is a form of praise. May I suggest that rejoicing in the Lord sets the stage for thanksgiving living. Listen to the Psalmist - Psalm 100,

"Shout for joy to the Lord all the earth.  Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever, his faithfulness continues through all generations."

Do you see why Paul instructs us to "rejoice in the Lord." The God described in Psalm 100 remains the same no matter what our circumstances are. Our circumstances can change but the character and faithfulness of God never changes.

Please do not underestimate what we are to rejoice in, rejoice in the Lord" A. T. Robertson explains, 

"Paul's joy was not grounded in earthly conditions but in Christ. No one could rob Paul of Christ or of his joy in Christ. Christ satisfied Paul's soul. Christ was his all in all. He needed nothing else to make his soul sing aloud and long for sheer joy." (Paul's Joy in Christ, pg. 129)

Let me ask you this morning. Can you rejoice "in the Lord"? There is a prerequisite to rejoicing in the Lord. First you must know the Lord. Paul testified to the Galatian church,

"I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."(Galatians 2:20  ESV)

Jesus has made every provision necessary to save us from our sin. As Paul testified, Jesus Christ "gave himself for me." That is, He died on the cross bearing the penalty for our sin, the sin that separates us from God. When we repent of our sin and put our trust in Jesus' death and resurrection we are born again and Christ lives in us as Paul testified. Only then can you "rejoice in the Lord." Rejoicing in the Lord; giving praise to the Lord; sets the stage for giving thanks to the Lord in prayer. 

That is the second word, prayer, Philippians 4:4-6. What role does prayer play in thanksgiving? You will notice that thanksgiving is included in Paul's instructions on prayer. "...do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication [or petition] with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." 

Giving thanks is a part of our prayer life, and especially when we are struggling with anxiety. Paul says, "...in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving make your requests known unto God." 

As we have just noted, Paul says we are to "rejoice in the Lord always" meaning in every circumstance, and now he instructs us to pray with thanksgiving in every circumstance. Paul gave similar instructions to the Thessalonians, 

"Rejoice always; pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."(1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV)

Paul described some of his "circumstances" in writing the Corinthians.

"Five times I received at the hands of Jews the forty lashes less one. Three times I was beaten with rods. [one of those was in Philippi] Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I was adrift at sea; on frequent journeys, in danger from rivers, danger from robbers, danger from my own people, danger from Gentiles, danger in the city, danger in the wilderness, danger at sea, danger from false brothers, in toil and hardship, through many a sleepless night, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure. And, apart from other things, there is the daily pressure on me of my anxiety for all the churches." (2 Corinthians 11:24-28 ESV) 

In light of these experiences of Paul we see the need for him to write in verse 5, "let your reasonableness [or gentleness - forbearance] be known to everyone." I don't know about you but when I get anxious or worried about something I sometimes get on edge. Anxiety often produces inner turmoil that often spills over in our relationship to others, hence the admonition to be reasonable toward others. 

Notice that Paul then goes on to explain how to deal with anxiety. "Do not be anxious about anything" verse 6. Standing on its own this would be a tall order!  "Do not be anxious about ANYTHING?" He makes no room for anxiety! Paul however does not leave us out on a limb. He continues verse 6, "...but in everything by prayer and supplication [petition] with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." 

Paul is challenging us to take our anxieties to the Lord in prayer and petition, and do it in the context of joy with thanksgiving! "Give thanks in ALL circumstances" (emphasis mine). 

Essentially, Paul is linking prayer with our daily living. And he links thanksgiving with prayer. Both are to be the practice of the believer. Hence, Thanksgiving Living! H. A. Kennedy writes,"Thanksgiving is the background, the predominant tone of the Christian life." (A. T. Robertson, Paul's Joy in Christ, pg. 131) 

Thanksgiving is to characterize our relationship with the Lord in every circumstance we find ourselves as we go to Him with our petitions and requests. 

This is the question I have to ask myself in light of Paul's admonition here; Is my prayer life characterized by thanksgiving? Dr. Mark Lee wrote, "Thanksgiving is a part of the formula of prayer. Thanks and praise are as necessary to prayer as salt and pepper are to food." ("Five Kernels of Corn" Alliance Life11-15-95) 

Note briefly these results. What is the opposite of anxiety? Paul makes mention of "peace" twice in this passage. verse 7, "...the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" verse 9, "and the God of peace will be with you." 

What could be more valuable than peace as we struggle with anxiety? Paul says the "peace of God...will guard your hearts", verse 7. A.T. Robertson, "This peace of God quiets both our hearts and our thoughts." (Paul's Joy in Chris, pg. 13)

However, notice that just as there is a prerequisite to rejoicing in the Lord, as we have just noted, there is also a perquisite to knowing the peace of God that Paul speaks of here. You must be at peace WITH God before you can experience the peace OF God. As A T Robertson writes, 

"God is the God of peace (Phil. 4:9), and his peace is the inward peace of the soul that is grounded in God' presence and promise. Paul here assumes that we have made our peace with God in Christ and now we are enjoying our peace with God Romans 5:1)." 

Have you been reconciled to God through faith in His Son Jesus Christ?  In other words, are you at peace with God" This is the prerequisite of experiencing the peace of God that Paul is speaks of here. 

The third word - contentment, Philippians 4:10-20, (ESV) 

"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. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Yet it was kind of you 'to share' my trouble. And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again. Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. And my God will supply every need of yours, according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen." 

How is contentment important in a life of thanksgiving?  Paul expresses his thanksgiving for the gifts of support he had received from the Philippian church. And in doing so, Paul shares what is apparently an important part of Thanksgiving Living - contentment. According to verse 12 he experienced times of great need and times of great plenty. And in verse 11 he says "I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content."May I suggest to you that contentment is part of the framework of thanksgiving. J A Motyer writes it is, "...the 'restful contentment' of the Christian, the opposite of the desire for more." and in Paul's case, he writes "Circumstances no longer had power to touch him, for he was content." (Philippian Studies, page 176) 

 Paul wrote the Romans, "...we rejoice in our suffering, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope..." (5:3-4 ESV) 

But Paul also learned the secret to contentment, "...in any and every circumstance" verse 12, and verse 13, "I can do all things through him who strengthens me."

For the born again Christian nothing God calls us to do or be depends on our own strength. And that truth is Paul's explicit testimony in this verse. Times of suffering, deprivation and want and times of plenty were the context of Paul learning contentment, but it was the power of God that strengthened him making it possible for him to learn contentment.

Earlier I mentioned the Thanksgiving celebrated by the pilgrims in 1621. What you might not remember is that this came after incredible suffering following their arrival in Massachusetts in December of 1620. William Bradford, Governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony wrote of what happened after their arrival in Plymouth, 

"...In two of three months' time half of their company died especially in January and February, being the depth of winter, and wanting houses and other comforts; being infected with the scurvy and other diseases which this long voyage...had brought them. So as there died as many as two or three a day in the foresaid time, that of 100 and odd persons, scarce 50 remained." 

Shirley Dobson writes, "The pilgrims landed in Massachusetts on December 16, 1620. Lacking sufficient provisions and shelter for winter, most settlers became ill within weeks. Ten of 17 husbands and fathers died with the 'first infection', and of the 17 wives, only three were alive after three months. By April, more than half of the population had died of disease or famine. These bleak circumstances were punctuated by other forms of human tragedy. For example, William Bradford's wife drowned as they disembarked from the Mayflower, leaving him a widower with a 1-year old son." 

In spite of these overwhelming tragedies and unimaginable suffering, the Pilgrims that survived that first winter set apart time to give thanks to God. 

The fourth and last word - provision. What provisions has God made for living a life of thanksgiving? Paul was grateful for the gifts of the Philippian church helping him in time of need. But note in verse 19 another truth that is important, if not foundational for Thanksgiving Living. "And my God will supply every need of yours, according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus." 

Note the extent of God's promise. "my God will supply every need of yours." Paul's testimony in this letter bore witness to this truth. God had used the gifts of the Philippians to fulfill this promise to Paul. God's promise to supply our needs is echoed all throughout Scripture. For example Matthew 6:33. In the context of discussing the foolishness of being anxious about the physical needs of life, food, clothing and shelter, Jesus says, "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."  (ESV) 

And notice the guarantee behind the promise. Again verse 19 Paul writes, "according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus." God can make this kind of promise because of who He is. The promise rests on the nature of God Himself. In other words, there is no limit to His provision. It is limitless. It can never be used up, no matter how great the need. His promise is inseparable from the glory of the one making the promise. It is the promise of a resurrected, ascended exalted and sovereign Lord unlimited in power. That is the foundation for thanksgiving! That allows us to "give thanks in all circumstances" and "to continue in prayer, being...thankful".

I close with this illustration. Author unknown. 

"Sandra felt as low as the heels on her Birkenstocks as she pushed against the November gust at the florist shop. Her life had been easy, like a spring breeze. Then in the fourth month of her second pregnancy, a minor automobile accident stole her ease. During this Thanksgiving week she would have delivered a son. She grieved over her loss. As if that weren't enough, her husband's company threatened a transfer. Then her sister, whose holiday visit she coveted, called saying she could not come. What's worse Sandra's friend infuriated her by suggesting her grief was a God-given path to maturity that would allow her to empathize with others who suffer. 

'Had she lost a child? No-she had not idea what I'm feeling.' Sandra shuddered. Thanksgiving? "Thanksgiving for what?" she wondered. For a careless driver whose truck was hardly scratched when he rear-ended her? For an airbag that saved her life but took that of her child?" 

'Good afternoon, can I help you?' The flower shop clerk's approach startled her. 'Sorry,' said Jenny, 'I just didn't want you to think I was ignoring you.' 

'I...I need an arrangement.' 'For Thanksgiving?' Sandra nodded. 'Do you want beautiful but ordinary, or would you like to challenge the day with a customer favorite I call the Special.' 

Jenny saw Sandra's curiosity and continued. 'I'm convinced that flowers tell stories, that each arrangement insinuates a particular feeling. Are you looking for something that conveys gratitude this Thanksgiving?'

'Not exactly!' Sandra blurted. 'Sorry but in the last five months, everything that could go wrong has.' Sandra regretted her outburst but was surprised when Jenny said, 'I have the perfect arrangement for you.'

The door's small bell suddenly rang. 'Barbara! Hi,' Jenny said, She politely excused herself from Sandra and walked toward a small workroom. She quickly reappeared carrying a massive arrangement of greenery, bows, and long-stemmed thorny roses. Only, the ends of the rose stems were neatly snipped, no flowers. 

'Want this in a box?' Jenny asked. Sandra watched for Barbara's response. Was this a joke? Who would want rose stems and no flowers! She waited for laughter, for someone to notice the absence of flowers atop the thorny stems, but neither women did. 'Yes, please. It's exquisite,' said Barbara. 'You'd think after three years of getting the special, I'd not be so moved by its significance, but it's happening again. My family will love this one. Thanks.'

Sandra stared. 'Why so normal a conversation about so strange an arrangement? she 

wondered. 'Ah, said Sandra, pointing, 'That lady just left with, ah...' Yes?' 'Well, she had no flowers!' 'Right, I cut off the flowers.' "Off?" Off. Yep. That's the Special. I call it the Thanksgiving Thorns Bouquet.' 

'But, why do people pay for that?' In spite of herself she chuckled.' 'Do you want to know?'

'I couldn't leave this shop without knowing. I'd think about nothing else!' 'That might be good,' said Jenny. 'Well,' she continued, 'Barbara came into the shop three years ago feeling very much like you feel today. She thought she had very little to be thankful for. She had lost her father to cancer, the family business was failing, her son was into drugs, and she faced major surgery. ''Ouch!' said Sandra.

'That same year, I lost my husband. I assumed complete responsibility for the shop and for the first time spent the holidays alone. I had no children, no husband, no family nearby, and too great a debt to allow any travel.' 

'What did you do?' 'I learned to be thankful for thorns.' Sandra's eyebrows lifted. 'Thorns?' 'I'm a Christian, Sandra. I've always thanked God for good things in life and I never thought to ask Him why good things happened to me? But, when bad stuff hit, did I ever ask! It took time to learn that dark times are important. I always enjoyed the "flowers" of life but it took thorns to show me the beauty of God's comfort. You know, the Bible says that God comforts us when we're afflicted and from His consolation we learn to comfort others.'

Sandra gasped. 'A friend read that passage to me and I was furious! I guess the truth is I don't want comfort. I've lost a baby and I'm angry with God.' She started to ask Jenny to 'go on' when the door's bell diverted their attention.

'Hey, Phil!' shouted Jenny as a balding, rotund man entered the shop. She softly touched Sandra's arm and moved to welcome him. He tucked her under his side for a warm hug. 'I'm here for the twelve thorny long-stemmed stems!' Phil laughed, heartily. 'I figured as much' said Jenny. 'I've got them ready.' She lifted a tissue-wrapped arrangement from the refrigerator cabinet. 'Beautiful,' said Phil. 'My wife will love them.' 

Sandra could not resist asking. 'These are for your wife?' Phil saw that Sandra's curiosity matched his when he first heard of a Thorn Bouquet. 'Do you mind me asking, "Why thorns?''In fact, I'm glad you asked, 'he said. 'Four years ago my wife and I nearly divorced. After forty years, we were in a real mess, but we slogged through, problem by rotten problem. We rescued our marriage---our love, really. Last year at Thanksgiving I stopped in here for flowers. I must have mentioned surviving a tough process because Jenny told me that for a long time she kept a vase of rose thorn-stems!' ---a reminder of what she learned from "thorny" times. That was good enough for me. I took home stems. My wife and I decided to label each one for a specific thorny situation and give thanks for what the problem taught us. I'm pretty sure this stem review is becoming a tradition.' 

Phil paid Jenny, thanked her again and as he left, said to Sandra, 'I highly recommend the Special!' 

'I don't know if I can be thankful for the thorns in my life,' Sandra said to Jenny. 'Well, my experience says that thorns make roses more precious. We treasure God's providential care more during trouble than at any other time. Remember, Sandra, Jesus wore a crown of thorns so that we might know His love. Do not resent thorns.' 

Tears rolled down Sandra's cheeks. for the first time since the accident she loosened her grip on resentment. 'I'll take twelve long-stemmed thorns, please.' 'I hoped you would,' Jenny said. 'I'll have them ready in a minute. Then every time you see them, remember to appreciate both good and hard times. We grow through both.' 

'Thanks you. What do I owe you?' 'Nothing. Nothing but a pledge to work toward healing your heart. The first year's arrangement is always on me.' Jenny handed a card to Sandra. 'I'll attach a care like this to you arrangement but maybe you'd like to read it first. Go ahead read it.' 

My God, I have never thanked Thee for my thorns! I have thanked Thee a thousand times for my roses, but never once for my thorns. Teach me the glory of the cross I bear, teach me the value of my thorns. Show me that I have climbed to Thee by the path of pain. Show me that my tears have made my rainbow. ~ George Matheson 

Jenny said, 'Happy Thanksgiving, Sandra,' handing her the Special. 'I look forward to our knowing each other better.' Sandra smiled. She turned, opened the door and walked toward hope." 

Let's read this together as we close:

"Rejoice in the Lord always, again I will say, Rejoice. Let you reasonableness [or gentleness] be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand [or near], do not be anxious about anything, but in everything with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus....

I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.... 

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.... 

And my God will supply every need of yours, according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen."

© James P. McGarvey, All Rights Reserved