Day 346

Rejoice

Read: Philippians

As was the case with many of Paul’s letters, he was in prison when he wrote this one. Yet his theme is “Rejoice!” Focusing on Jesus Christ, we can have joy in the midst of affliction.

Paul has this joy because he knows that even if he is killed for his faith, he is the winner. “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (1:21). Dying is gain, because it will mean experiencing a fuller measure of Christ. The result of such an outlook on life should be “let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ” (v. 27).

Another cause of rejoicing is if we can see that the people with whom we are trying to share Christ respond by doing “nothing from selfishness or conceit” (2:3) and thus reflecting the spirit of Christ who “emptied himself, taking the form of a servant” (v. 7). We can rejoice because we have the assurance that such humility will lead to blessing.

We can also rejoice in our fellowship with those who share our dedication to Christ, especially if they can tell us of good things that are happening in the church of Christ (2:28).

Another reason for rejoicing is that God helps us look at life from a new perspective, to be content whether we have much or little. He also will give us the strength we need for everything. So, rejoice!

PRAYER
Father, fill our hearts with joy as we consider the many reasons Christ gives us to have such joy. In his name. Amen.