(Phil. 1:27)
By Lady Debra Smith
The Answer Staff Columnist

Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the Gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel. (NIV)

Philippians is what I like to call a love letter from Paul and Timothy, slaves of Christ Jesus.  Even though written from a prison, it is written to all of God’s people in Philippi who believe in Christ Jesus and to the elders and deacons. 

So if you don’t mind for just a few minutes let’s take this letter personally… In other words this letter is written to us.  So you are cordially invited to take a trip to a wonderful place called ‘Whatever Happens’.

To decide to live or visit this place called ‘Whatever Happens’ means you will no longer limit ourselves to a ho-hum existence but will embrace and hold fast to a thing called Divine Providence…to know that the very hand of God guides us even through our darkest hours.  Divine Providence is what gives us peace when we can’t figure out the unfigureable!  It’s the calm in the midst of confusion.

In a place called ‘Whatever Happens’ we can sing Great is Thy faithfulness, Oh God my father…Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me…

A place called ‘Whatever Happens’ constantly reminds the saints of God that titles and degrees don’t preach! We put them on walls and sit them in corners, but they will not preach!  God will use people who are sold out for Him, who have no recognition, refinement or polish and make them great voices for the Kingdom!

How do we know when we arrive at our destination called Whatever Happens?

1. We’ll have the fullness of Joy – When we pray we’ll have some joy every now and then…we’ll have joy when we’ve helped others for the cause of Christ.

2. We’ll have Christ like attitudes – Is there any encouragement where you are?  We are to have an attitude like that of Christ himself.  Though he was God, he demanded nothing; he humbled himself and became a slave in human form. And he died a criminal death.  Check that attitude!

3. And lastly, sisters who live in that place called ‘Whatever Happens’ know the Lord for themselves.  We know we’ve been bought with a price, covered by the blood and that we’ve been set free indeed!

So the next time it seems that everything is all for naught, when it seems like we’re mocking time and getting nowhere fast…just remember, you live in a place called Whatever Happens.

So all aboard! Hurry up and pack your bags! Let’s go to that wonderful place called WHATEVER! (Hallelujah)

Excuse me…I think I need to run!!