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About Jesus Steve Sweetman What Does It Matter "...some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry...supposing that they can stir up trouble for me...But what does it matter? The important thing is that... Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice." - Philippians 1:15-18 When Paul wrote these words he was in prison. There were some that wanted to see Paul suffer even more, so they preached hoping to stir up the people and Paul's accusers. In turn Paul would find himself in more hot water. What was Paul's response to all of this? It was simple, just five words, "but what does it matter". These five words can be said in more than one tone of voice. You could say in a negative sarcastic manner, "O what does it matter anyway"! How did Paul say these words. I believe there was a touch of resignation in his voice, maybe a bit of light heartedness. He does say that he "rejoices" in these troubles. I can see Paul shrugging his shoulders and simply saying, "O well, what does it really matter anyway", and then going on with his life without too many thoughts of his troubles. Think about these words when you are ready to make a mountain out of a mole-hill. Ask yourself, "does it really matter"? When you're tempted to be selfish instead of deferring to your wife or husband, can you say, "what does it matter". When daily trials come, and you want to get upset, think first, then say, "it doesn't matter". Paul, the man
of faith said these words. It wasn't a sign of weakness or unbelief on his part. It isn't
for you either. It is a note of reality. It is laying aside all the reasons to display
your negative human emotion in order to rejoice, in order to think of others, or in order
to do what the Lord wants in that particular moment. Take these words seriously. Let the reality of what Paul said here sink deep into your heart so that it is displayed in your actions. See how these words said from your heart can set you free from so many human emotions that may bind your life.
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