What Really Matters?

1. Read Philippians 1:6, "Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." How does this verse affect your outlook on personal growth and change?

2. Read Philippians 1:12. How have unexpected circumstances in your life actually contributed to the advancement of a greater purpose or message in your life?

3. Read Philippians 1:13, Paul's situation led to the spreading of the gospel even among the palace guard. Can you think of a time when an unexpected situation created an opportunity for sharing your faith?

4. Paul acknowledges different motivations for preaching Christ in Philippians 1:15-18. How can we discern whether our actions are rooted in goodwill and love or driven by selfish ambition?

5. Read Philippians 1:18. How does Paul's perspective on the preaching of Christ challenge you to focus on what truly matters?

6. How does the concept of "rejoicing" in Philippians 1:18 align with the idea that you can choose to rejoice in difficult circumstances? What practical steps can we take to embrace this choice?

7. Discuss the phrase "For to me, to live is Christ" from Philippians 1:21. What does this mean to you personally? How can you apply this principle to your daily life?

8. Pastor James said: "You can't decide what happens, but you can decide what matters." How does this statement empower you to navigate life's uncertainties with a renewed perspective?

9. Pastor James also said: "Your perspective changes when you determine what matters." How can identifying and focusing on what truly matters help shift your viewpoint on life's circumstances?

10. In Philippians 1:16, Paul's motivation for his actions is rooted in love and the defense of the gospel. How can we align our motivations with love and purpose in everything we do?

11. Read Philippians 1:18 and Paul's conviction that Christ being preached is what truly matters. How can this principle guide us to prioritize the gospel message above personal preferences and differences?