Introduction
- Paul in Philippians
- A Christian life should be a joyous life. God wants us to be joyful!
The mystery of a joyful man
- Philippians, a letter of joy
- Paul was filled with joy
- But his circumstances were awful
- Paul’s circumstances:
- A prisoner, Philippians 1:13
- Wearing a chain, Ephesians 6:20
- Facing possible execution, Philippians 1:21
- Harassed by enemies, Philippians 1:17
- Thorn in the flesh, II Corinthians 12:7
- Periods of deprivation, Philippians 4:12
- Brethren in trouble, II Corinthians 11:28-29
- Paul’s circumstances:
- How is this possible?
- Because he found joy in Christ
- Philippians 4:4 – If you’re not rejoicing in the Lord, you’re not doing it right!
- We need to learn from his example
- Philippians 4:9
- Things Paul didn’t do:
- Complain, Philippians 2:14
- Hold grudges, Philippians 1:15-18
- Worry about pointless things, Philippians 3:7-8
- Let his imperfection bother him, Philippians 3:12
- Dwell on the past, Philippians 3:13
- Things Paul did:
- Expressed gratitude, Philippians 1:3
- Build and nurtured relationships, Philippians 1:7-8
- Had hope for the future, Philippians 1:18-21
- Saw the good in his life, Philippians 1:12
- Was prepared to die, Philippians 1:21
- Focused on helping others, Philippians 2:3-4
- Praying about his difficulties, Philippians 4:6-7
- Thought beautiful thoughts, Philippians 4:8
- Was content with what he had, Philippians 4:11-13
- Your joy in the Lord is independent of your circumstances. Once you learn that, you are free!
Conclusion
- Despite trying circumstances, Paul was able to have great joy.
- This comes from completely giving oneself to the spirit and life of Christ.
- If we follow Paul’s example, we can share his joy.