November 30–JOY

It’s Friday and if you haven’t noticed everywhere you look, I think we have officially entered into the season of joy. Did you know that joy is mentioned in the Bible 165 times? And in the tiny, 4-chapter book of Philippians, joy (or rejoice) is used 16 times. So 10% of times we read about joy is in those four, short chapters of Philippians. Add to that the fact that when the Apostle Paul wrote the letter to the church in Philipi, he was in prison, in chains. It is in that smelly, disgusting place where he writes of joy unspeakable. 

In this letter, Paul also spends significant time talking about our minds being strong and being like-minded. I find it fascinating that clearly, Paul’s joy didn’t come from circumstance, but rather from his decision to be joyful. He made up his mind that whatever his situation, he would live for Christ and in that, he could find great joy. 

There were many who had become more confident because of his imprisonment and were preaching the gospel without fear. There were also those who were envious and took advantage of the fact he was in prison and began preaching. But Paul didn’t worry about the latter, he was simply joyful that the good news was being preached—however it got out there! 

 “But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and God’s provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance...For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭1:18-19, 21‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Paul’s entire goal was to spread the gospel. In every way, every day, in every situation, Paul proclaimed Christ with joy—joy to the world because Christ, our Redeemer King, had come. 

Dear Father, thank you for the example of Paul who chose to be joyful in the midst of an awful situation. He knew his suffering was but for a time and that it was actually moving the message in a way that might never have happened had he had an easy life. We worship you and praise you for your goodness and grace. Thank you for helping us to remember to celebrate you and to not be ashamed nor silent. We love you Lord. Amen and amen. 

Love you dear one, 

Pam

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