This week, we begin a new sermon series—"JOY, no matter what”—a look at Paul's letter to the Philippians. With all the stress, tension, and general unknowns surrounding us in nearly every area, joy seems to be an elusive thing these days.
When we think of joy, we often think of an emotion—something that comes and goes like a wave, moment by moment. Our joy is often tied to the way we feel about things, even the way we feel about ourselves.
From a prison cell in Rome, Paul talks about real joy that is independent of any external circumstances or some sense of control he might gain over an impossible situation. What is the source of this joy, and how can we find it? Do we believe it is available to us today?
Philippians 4:11-12
"Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”