In the biblical witness, we find the superlative expression of such sober confidence in Saint Paul's Letter to the Philippians. Background The textual evidence suggests Paul wrote this letter to the Christian community in Philippi about the 63 AD while he awaited trial in a Roman prison on the charge of sedition.

The notion of purpose is not a scientific term. Science can only observe, describe, and draw conclusions. It cannot import from theology (or metaphysics) a belief in a divine ordainer of purpose. But neither can it deny its possibility. There is no reason why the evolutionary process could not be compatible with the achievement of purpose on the part of God.

The Christian believes that in this life we are on a journey, a pilgrimage, and that we are being led by God the Holy Spirit. Despite all the obstacles and trials on the journey, all the temptations to turn aside, or to quit the journey, we believe God is leading us on to the Promised Land. On the way we have much to learn about following the Spirit, about being willing to be led by the Spirit.

St. Paul speaks out of personal experience. He was given a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment him. "Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." (2 Corinthians 12:7-9)