May the mumbling commence!
So, we continue through Paul’s letter to the Philippians, which I have subtitled: REJOICE. Within the first few verses of the letter, we came upon the word joy. And that joy was built upon prayer.
Not much further into chapter one, we come upon the idea of rejoicing. And Paul’s rejoicing occurs in a less than savory circumstance – imprisoned for preaching Christ to Gentiles. This imprisonment has inspired Christians to preach Christ more boldly – some knowing Paul is in prison for this very thing and some wishing to cause Paul more trouble in his imprisonment.
Still, Paul speaks of rejoicing… and he underlines his rejoicing by mentioning it not once but twice. Read from Philippians chapter one (ESV):
And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former proclaim Christ out of rivalry, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment.
What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance, as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. (Verses 14-20)
What brings Paul joy in this uncomfortable position? Christ is boldly proclaimed. Joy is firmly founded in Christ Jesus and the spread of his gospel message to everyone. Paul rejoices. Yes Paul rejoices. Let us join Paul in rejoicing… in being overwhelmed with joy even when our circumstances might bring tears of distress and fear.
How does Paul rejoice? Paul rejoices through the prayers of other Christians. Paul maintains his joy through the Spirit of Christ working in his life. Paul maintains his joy because he knows that whether by his life or by his death Christ will be honored. Yes, joy is bound up in laying down our own honor for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Do you want unwavering joy in your life? Follow the example of the Apostle Paul. Embrace the gospel message of Christ Jesus. Pray. Ask for the prayer of other Christians on your behalf. Seek the honor Christ before your own honor.
Enough mumbling for now…
Peace Out
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