Captain Charlie Plumb is a Vietnam POW survivor. Well, he did more than survive. He thrived in a communist prison camp and even more so when he returned home.
Charlie has become a motivational speaker, telling his story of resilience to over 5,000 audiences in nearly every industry—including 3M, Blue Cross Blue Shield, NASA and BMW. You can read more about him at https://charlieplumb.com.
Like Charlie, Paul survived prison, too. Like Charlie, Paul did more than survive, he thrived.
The apostle Paul was imprisoned for preaching about Jesus. While in prison, he wrote four books of the Bible, and inspired others in their faith. “Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel” (Philippians 1:12).
Like Captain Plumb, the apostle Paul was more interested in the noble cause for which he was imprisoned than the imprisonment itself.
Paul and Charlie survived—and thrived—because their focus was not their chains, their suffering. No, these simply served a greater good. For Paul, a greater God. In Paul’s words, “I am in chains for Christ” (Philippians 1:13).
What do you believe about your suffering? Are you a victim or a victor?
You have the same God as Paul. You experience suffering and hardship just like Paul. Whether or not you are a victim or a victor—this does not depend on your circumstances, but on your Savior. In Jesus Christ, you are a victor.
So live like it. Believe it. And you will inspire others, too.
Want to hear more about Charlie Plumb, the Apostle Paul, and how you can inspire others? Watch my message preached yesterday, called “Because of My Chains.” I’ve posted it here or you can scroll down and see the thumbnail.
PRAYER: Dear Jesus, you rescued Paul, showed him mercy and forgiveness, loved him and led him to inspire others. And you do the same for me! I am a victor in you, Lord, and not a victim of my circumstances. I pray today that my story can inspire others. Amen.
FURTHER MEDITATION: Watch the message “Because of My Chains,” either for the first time or if you saw it on Sunday, review it. What resonates with your spirit? What does God want to tell you?