The Basis of Joy

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I am thankful that my last blood work tests showed my protein levels within a normal range. (I am posting my most recent chart but my current protein level is .5) This is good news because these levels are related to muscle strength and fatigue. It seemed to be a nicer day than anticipated. Debbie got home early enough for us to go out for a short walk. I am getting myself organized for my daily workout schedule.

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This morning I read through the Book of Philippians. This book always brings back memories of my teen years as a “Bible quizzer.”

Philippians has as its theme “joy.” The Christian life should be a life of joy. When we look at the promises of God’s Word and the work of the Holy Spirit in our life those who follow Christ have every reason to live with a sense of joy. Paul says, “Rejoice in the Lord always.” (Phil4:5)

This book also contains some of the most familiar and oft quoted verses. When I began to review them, I believe they can form a foundation of joy.

“being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Phil. 1:6

Paul said this assurance is why he prayed for the Philippians with joy. We can rest assured that what God begins He finishes. He won’t give up on us even when we give up on Him. His work continues in us and through us until the day He returns.

“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Phil. 1:21

This verse framed Paul’s perspective of His commitment to Christ in the midst of the trials he faced and even the threats against his life. When you can say, “if I die I gain, if I live it is for Christ” there is a peace, confidence and joy that can permeate your life.

“Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, tothe glory of God the Father.”  Phil. 2:9-11

Philippians 2 begins with this passage that talks about Christ coming to earth as a servant of our salvation. Instead of clinging to His position in heaven, he humbled himself and that resulted in His name being high above all. That is why speaking the name “Jesus” is the simplest form of praise and one of the most powerful.

“…continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.” Phil. 2:12,13

God’s Word translation puts this verse into these words, “God…produces in you the desires and actions that please him.”

As we yield to God’s Word and work of His Spirit we have this confidence that God works in our heart and works through our actions in a way that will please Him. When we please Him joy abounds in our l

“But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”  Phil.3:13,14

This verse is related to Phil. 1:6. Real joy is not found resting on any accomplishment or attainment. It is not getting discouraged by what others say or do; it is keeping your eyes on the prize and giving it our best effort as we live to please Christ.

Chapter 4 contains four well known verses:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”        Phil. 4:6,7

“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”     Phil. 4:13

“ And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” Phil. 4:19

It is no wonder that Paul admonishes the Philippians to “rejoice in the Lord!” Our faith in God replaces anxiety with peace, provides us the strength for all that confronts us and gives us the assurance that our needs will be met by the Lord our provider. Meditate on these assurances, embrace these assurances and rejoice in the Lord!