WEEK 3: LETTING GO… OF LOVED ONES & FINDING HOPE
Philippians 1:18b-26
READ Each week as we read through the book of Philippians we will read a different translation. This week we will be reading the New Living Translation (NLT). You can find different translations through the YouVersion Bible App (www.bible.com). Consider listening to the scripture this week. Day 1 - Read Chapter 1 Day 2 - Read Chapter 2 Day 3 - Read Chapter 3 Day 4 - Read Chapter 4 Day 5 - Here is a video of Mercy Me singing “I Can Only Imagine” while social distancing. As you listen, imagine Paul thinking these thoughts as he wrote, “For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain.” https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=PCSizMrK5aU&app=desktop MEMORIZE This week we are memorizing Philippians 1:21: “For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain.” This week in your journal spend some time reviewing the last two verses. Can you write them without looking back?
REFLECT This has been a hard season. Most likely, we all have experienced grief in some way. How, or where, have you personally experienced grief?
Although it doesn’t always feel this way, we do have choices even in the midst of grief. We can choose to find hope. We can choose to focus on the good and find reasons to celebrate, even while still experiencing sadness and heartache. How can you exercise choice in the midst of your own grief?
Thinking specifically about the loss of loved ones in our lives, what are some ways you can celebrate the lives they lived?
Give yourself permission to grieve today. It is okay to acknowledge the loss, heartache, and sadness of this season. If the grief becomes too overwhelming, be sure to get help, either from a trusted friend, a counselor, or a pastor.
SPIRITUAL HABIT As you reflect on that last question, prepare to practice our spiritual habit that was introduced in this week’s sermon. Here is a clip of Pastor Rob guiding us through the practice: https://vimeo.com/470185155/adb15df48c