It Starts Small

Author: Kimberlee Smith

  • Yearning for Christ: Paul’s Message on Life and Death

    In Philippians 1:21-26, Paul expresses his commitment to living for Christ, even as he feels torn between life and death. He recognizes that while being with Christ is preferable, his continued presence serves others’ spiritual growth. Ultimately, Paul emphasizes the urgency of embracing one’s faith fully and joyfully yearning to…

  • Understanding Paul’s Imprisonment: A Lesson in Courage

    The passage reflects Paul’s unwavering hope for deliverance through Christ, emphasizing his deep desire to glorify God amidst imprisonment. His connection with the Philippians provides strength, and he urges them to live worthy of the gospel. Paul’s commitment to faith, evident even in adversity, inspires believers to prioritize Christ above…

  • Finding Joy in Adversity: Paul’s Prison Letters

    Paul’s imprisonment advanced the gospel, inspiring confidence among believers and showcasing his unwavering faith. Despite mixed motivations among preachers, Paul rejoiced in Christ being proclaimed. He embraced hardships as opportunities for prayer, writing, and connection, emphasizing pure intentions in sharing the gospel and encouraging others to uncover positivity in their…

  • Koinonia

    The concept of koinōnia, found in Philippians, encapsulates the idea of profound fellowship and shared life in Christ, emphasizing both spiritual and material interconnectedness among believers. It encourages a collective existence marked by generosity and support, as illustrated by the early Christian communities, highlighting the importance of unity and communal…

  • Fervent Prayers: The Key to Spiritual Growth

    In his letter to the Philippians, Paul expresses gratitude and joy for their partnership in spreading the gospel, even amid his imprisonment. He emphasizes the importance of love, spiritual growth, and fervent prayer. Paul’s unwavering faith assures that God’s work in them will be completed, encouraging believers to pursue growth…

  • New Character Study Guide: Jacob

    We couldn’t look at the story of Leah and Rachel without looking at the story of Jacob! This study guide is over 100 pages long. I realize it does not make it very printer friendly, but I hope you can still use it as a guide or like a book.…

  • Paul’s Journey: From Prison to Purpose

    In Philippians, Paul writes from prison, sharing his hopeful spirit despite suffering. He recounts significant events from his time in Philippi, including the conversion of the jailer after an earthquake. The letter emphasizes the church’s positive growth while urging perseverance in faith. Paul and Timothy’s unity highlights their mission-driven focus.

  • The Conclusions of Ephesians

    21 Tychicus, the dear brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will tell you everything, so that you also may know how I am and what I am doing. 22 I am sending him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are, and that he may encourage you. 23 Peace to the…

  • Vigilant Prayer: Strengthening Our Community

    18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. 19 Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I…

  • Understanding the Full Armor of God

    This passage emphasizes the importance of spiritual strength and armor for Christians in facing evil forces. Paul urges believers to rely on God’s power and put on the full armor of God, which includes truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, and the Word of God, to stand firm against Satan’s schemes.