Partnership=Teamwork

Welcome to 2026, the start of an exciting year full of blessings and opportunities to overcome. Let’s dive into the Word afresh. 

The Philippian church was one of Paul’s special relationships, an ongoing partnership where genuine care was both given by Paul and actually reciprocated by the church. The Philippians regularly sent finances and people to support Paul’s work.  

This level of relationship is where our GoChurch values of “truth in love” and “honesty with honour” get worked out. Paul writes some strong words to his partners: 

Prayer: Paul doesn’t need to hold back in his prayer, to keep it private. He is able to articulate what he is praying so the church pays attention. One of the things I often do is ask the Lord for a scripture or prophetic word for people. Something I pray for them, usually without telling them. I usually only share those words once the Lord says or when the relationship develops deeper. Paul writes in Philippians 1:9 “This is my prayer …” not just a now word but an ongoing direction the Lord has given him. Something to push into, to reinforce and strengthen. 

Something we can do for others across this year!! Maybe we will also get the opportunity to share those words but that requires a strong relationship and humility. 

Humility: Paul contrasts his own responses to that of those who have used his imprisonment to further their own positions. Paul reflects on Jesus and Paul’s own journey to respond like Jesus to the greater plan of God. Being encouraged from being united with Christ (Phil 2:1). Suffering, humility and fruitfulness working together. Partnership always requires cooperation, adaption, patience and real work. We have to believe in others just as we believe in Christ. Striving together as one for the gospel (Phil 1:27). Looking out for others more than ourselves. Going the extra mile, risking our lives to help when others cannot give, like Timothy and Epaphroditus. This attitude always produces thanksgiving. 

Thanksgiving: Paul saw his level of thanksgiving as a fundamental part of his prayer life success. Worship and thanksgiving combining to set up his prayer. Focusing his heart and mind on the One who answers prayer, before, during and after praying (Phil 4:4-9). Humbling himself, giving honour, resetting his thinking, focusing on the promises and glorifying the Lord. Building the relationship ever stronger. Drinking from the river of life and bearing fruit (Psalm 1). 

Let’s partner together as we read the Word, pray, humble ourselves and give thanks consistently across the year.