"But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defense of the gospel" (Philippians 1:17).

Many Christians today decry the use of apologetics or evidences in Christian witnessing, feeling it is somehow dishonoring to the Lord or to the Scriptures to try to defend them.

"The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into His hand" (John 3:35).

"Wherefore we labor, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of Him" (II Corinthians 5:9).

"It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes" (Psalm 119:71).

This seems like a strange testimony. Affliction is often accompanied by complaining or discouragement, but seldom by a statement of satisfaction and thankfulness, such as in our text for today.

"How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!" (Psalm 139:17).