1. In a manner worthy of the gospel (27-28)

God doesn't promise anyone a trouble-free life. Anything can happen. But no matter what happens, we must conduct ourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel. Paul encourages us to contend as one man for the faith of the gospel. When opposition arises, we must not be frightened in any way. Fear makes people compromise or quarrel among themselves. We must stand firm and stand together. When we do, it is a sign to unbelievers that they will be destroyed and we will be saved--and that by God.

2. It has been granted to you to suffer (29-30)

Everyone experiences some suffering and hardship at sometime in life. God grants believers the privilege of suffering for Jesus. Pointless suffering in the world makes us sorrowful and fatalistic; suffering for Jesus is suffering with Jesus. This enables us to know and love Jesus more, to grow in his image and to glorify God. Let us give our sufferings to Jesus and struggle in prayer to overcome our sufferings by faith.

Application: Lord, help me to conduct myself in a manner worthy of the gospel; teach me to rejoice in suffering for Jesus.
One Word: In a manner worthy of the gospel