1 Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called as an apostle, and set apart for the gospel of God—2 which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures.
Romans 1:1-2 (CSB)
21 For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
Philippians 1:21 (CSB)
18 What does it matter? Only that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is proclaimed, and in this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice 19 because I know this will lead to my salvation, through your prayers and help from the Spirit of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 1:18-19 (CSB)
My Identity helps me:
1. To see God work in my problems.
12 Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually advanced the gospel,
Philippians 1:12 (CSB)
13 so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard, and to everyone else, that my imprisonment is because I am in Christ.
Philippians 1:13 (CSB)
14 Most of the brothers have gained confidence in the Lord from my imprisonment and dare even more to speak the word, fearlessly.
Philippians 1:14 (CSB)
28 We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. 29 For those he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, so that he would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.
Romans 8:28-29 (CSB)
My Identity helps me:
2. To focus on what counts.
15 To be sure, some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of good will. 16 These preach out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel; 17 the others proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, thinking that they will cause me trouble in my imprisonment.
Philippians 1:15-17 (CSB)
18 What does it matter? Only that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is proclaimed, and in this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice.
Philippians 1:18 (CSB)
5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways know him, and he will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (CSB)
My Identity allows me:
3. To find the strength to keep going.
19 because I know this will lead to my salvation, through your prayers and help from the Spirit of Jesus Christ. 20 My eager expectation and hope is that I will not be ashamed about anything, but that now as always, with all courage, Christ will be highly honored in my body, whether by life or by death.
Philippians 1:19-20 (CSB)
13 I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me. 14 Still, you did well by partnering with me in my hardship.
Philippians 4:13-14 (CSB)
My Identity helps me:
4. To have a purpose in life.
21 For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
Philippians 1:21 (CSB)
16 At my first defense, no one stood by me, but everyone deserted me. May it not be counted against them. 17 But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that I might fully preach the word and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth
2 Timothy 4:16-17 (CSB)
22 “And now I am on my way to Jerusalem, compelled by the Spirit, not knowing what I will encounter there, 23 except that in every town the Holy Spirit warns me that chains and afflictions are waiting for me. 24 But I consider my life of no value to myself; my purpose is to finish my course and the ministry I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of God’s grace.
Acts 20:22-24 (CSB)