Philippians 1-4

Unit 1 Choice 1; Philippians 1-4. Find Solutions in the Scriptures to Life’s Challenges

For each of the following common challenges, write the counsel from Philippians that you would use to resolve it:

• People sometimes argue and complain over petty matters in church meetings or throughout the week (see Philippians 2:1-8, 14-15). Paul teaches us in Philippians that we should, “Do all things without murmurings and disputings” and that we should be humble and love one another.  We should work together to solve the problems and not let them come between us.
• Many youth feel that their parents’ testimony is sufficient for them. Since they have good parents, they rely on them for all their spiritual strength (see Philippians 2:12-15 and institute manual commentary for Philippians 2:12, “Work out Your Own Salvation with Fear and Trembling” [pp. 361-62]). Paul teaches us that we must work out our own salvation. It is not enough for us to trust in the testimony of other people, we must gain our own testimony. It is only by our own efforts and faith that we can be saved, not through those of our loved ones.
• An investigator is considering joining the Church, but his family will no longer associate with him if he does (see Philippians 3:7-16; 4:13). Though it will not be easy, our eternal salvation is more important than our mortal relationships. Christ will comfort you and help you through these hard times.

I have a friend who went through a similar experience. Her parents refused to come to the temple grounds for her wedding day and even refused to come to the wedding luncheon that was held in a local restaurant. Even though her parents were not there, she felt surrounded by love thanks to the the people who had come to celebrate her wonderful day with her.  

Her parents no longer have any contact with her because of her church membership. It has not always been easy, but she has many friends who have become her family and she has an automatic church family wherever she goes.

• How is this writing assignment an example of the principle taught in 2 Nephi 32:3? This scripture tells us, “the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do.” As we search the scriptures and keep the spirit with us we can find answers to all of lifes problems and questions in the scriptures.