OVER 2 MILLION SOLD IN THE LIFE LESSONS SERIES! In an era marked by frustration, could you use more contentment? In a world filled with anxieties, worries, and fears, could you stand to have a bit more joy? The believers in Philippi were struggling. They were trying to grow in faith and live for Christ. Trying to deal with conflict and threats of persecution. The apostle Paul was stuck in a Roman prison when he wrote to this young church. His letter could have focused on his own troubles. Instead, he wrote about living a life full of joy, peace, and contentment. Paul's confidence reminds us of God's wisdom and control in the difficult moments of life. His excitement challenges us in this guide to joy. As you read, study, journal, and discuss the book of Philippians, watch for these key themes that Max will unpack throughout the book: By faith we have Christ in us because of the Spirit of God. - Only Christ can bring salvation. - Christian unity encourages our faith. The Life Lessons with Max Lucado series brings the Bible to life in twelve lessons filled with intriguing questions, inspirational stories, and poignant reflections to take you deeper into God's Word. Each lesson includes: An opening reflection on the Bible book you're studying. - Background information to deepen your understanding of the cultural and historical setting. - An excerpt of the text (from the NIV and the NKJV). - Exploration questions with plenty of room to write your own thoughts and notes. - Inspirational thoughts from Max as well as a closing takeaway for further reflection. The Life Lessons series is ideal for use in both a small-group setting or for individual study. Since entering the ministry in 1978, Max Lucado has served churches in Miami, Florida; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; and San Antonio, Texas. He currently serves as the teaching minister of Oak Hills Church in San Antonio. He is the recipient of the 2021 ECPA Pinnacle Award for his outstanding contribution to the publishing industry and society at large. He is America's bestselling inspirational author with more than 150 million products in print. Visit his website at MaxLucado.com Facebook.com/MaxLucado Instagram.com/MaxLucado X.com/MaxLucado Youtube.com/MaxLucadoOfficial The Max Lucado Encouraging Word Podcast Life Lessons from Philippians Guide to Joy By Max Lucado, Len Woods Thomas Nelson Copyright © 2018 Max Lucado All rights reserved. ISBN: 978-0-310-08650-5 Contents How to Study the Bible, v, Introduction to the Book of Philippians, ix, Lesson 1 Praying for Others (Philippians P.1-11), 1, Lesson 2 Triumph in Trouble (Philippians 1:12-18), 11, Lesson 3 Standing Firm (Philippians 1:19-30), 21, Lesson 4 All for One (Philippians 2:1-4), 31, Lesson 5 Ultimate Servanthood (Philippians 2:5-11), 39, Lesson 6 Shining for Christ (Philippians 2:12-18), 49, Lesson 7 Role Models (Philippians 2:19-30), 57, Lesson 8 Right Standing with God (Philippians 3:1-11), 65, Lesson 9 Eternal Focus (Philippians 3:12-21), 75, Lesson 10 The Peace of God (Philippians 4:1-7), 83, Lesson 11 It's All in Your Mind (Philippians 4:8-13), 91, Lesson 12 Generosity (Philippians 4:14-23), 101, Leader's Guide for Small Groups, 109, CHAPTER 1 LESSON ONE PRAYING FOR OTHERS In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. Philippians 1:4-5 REFLECTION Prayer. You hear sermons about it. You might talk about it with people at church. Perhaps you even read books about it. But when it comes to conversing with God, one on one, what are your actual habits? How much time do you spend in an average day actually talking to the Lord? _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ SITUATION Paul generally begins his letters with an expression of thanksgiving for the recipients. However, his letter to the Philippians is unique in that he emphasizes the believers' partnership with him in sharing the gospel and expresses his confidence that this continuing partnership — in spite of the fact he is in chains — will culminate as God intends when they stand together before Christ. Paul clearly has a deep affection for this Macedonian congregation, which he demonstrates through his faithfulness in prayer for them. OBSERVATION Read Philippians 1:1-11 from the New International Version or the New King James Version. New International Version 1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all God's holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons: 2 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 I thank my God every time I remember you. 4 In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry i