PHILIPPIANS' FODDER!

How I love to "feed" on God's word!

Especially in the 13 Pauline epistles in the New Testament.

Four of my favorites are the mnemonic General Electric Power Company which have been my way to keep those books straight in my mind. Thanks to a bible Study teacher's suggestion years ago.

If anyone remembers her name, I would appreciate the reminder.

Galatians. Ephesians. Philippians. Colossians.

Today hubby and I start a new book, Considering Sparrows,* by Kevin Burrell, a PCA pastor (Presbyterian Church of America) in Charlotte, NC. It's a book which blends creation's beauty with Scripture's depth from the book of Philippians. The subtitle of the book clarifies it well.

What Birds Teach Us About Who We Are, Where We're Going, and the Joy of Following Jesus.

Hubby, being an avid bird watcher, will keep me grounded as I'm one who would prefer flying away. (Psalm 55:8)

*A 2026 summer book study at First Evan, in Memphis, to be led by Anne B. and Mary E.. 

Preceding Phrases take Precedence

Word order is important,  especially in Scripture. 

In my recent Fervent blog entry, I typed from memory Romans 12:12. I know that verse. I use it often in prayer for others. So........why did I transpose the phrases???

Was I so emotionally caught up in the affliction of my friend that my emotions superseded understanding! Feelings can so easily do that to me----often robbing me of my joy.

Yesterday morning I "saw" it.

"Joyful in hope" precedes patient in affliction. Hope MUST have it's rightful place in order for true patience to be available. In the Pauline epistles, the apostle Paul often writes "Grace and Peace to you from God our Father (Galatians 1:3, Ephesians 1:2, Philippians 1:2, Colossians 1:2) Grace precedes peace.
Grace always comes first! It has........to because without God's grace there is no true peace.

Preceding Phrases take Precedence----priority in importance or order.

Order for a reason---clarity from the Lord about what comes first!