Joy

I have been thinking about joy a great deal lately, especially as I am studying Philippians once again. Paul's writings are filled with the theme of joy and rejoicing. He is writing this letter as he is under house arrest, chained to a Roman soldier day and night. Yet he begins by telling the Philippians that he is thankful for them and makes every prayer for them with joy. The very fact that he is thinking of others over himself is amazing, but even more astounding is that he is doing so with joy. A few verses down he tells them, "I will rejoice." Why? Because no matter what is going on with him and around him, Christ is being proclaimed. His joy comes from his attitude "to live is Christ and to die is gain." He begins chapter three with the admonition to rejoice in the Lord before he gives them some strong warnings about false teachings that might rob them of their joy. He picks up the theme of joy again in chapter four, saying once again, "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, Rejoice." As Paul ends this letter to the Philippians, we are shown where he finds this joy. It comes from his focus on the Lord. "I rejoiced in the Lord greatly..." He has joy because he is content with his lot in life. "I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content." He has joy because he is totally dependent on Christ. "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me." Again, he has joy because he looks to God alone. "To our God and Father be glory forever and ever." Be encouraged today in the joy of the Lord, and may "the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit."