Day 278 – Philippians: Joy in suffering and serving
“For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better.” Philippians 1:21 NLT
Read Philippians 1:1 to 2:30
As you read through Philippians, keep in mind that Paul wrote this letter from prison, and regardless of his circumstances, the dominant theme is joy. He explains that the secret of his joy is grounded in his relationship with Christ. Amongst the suffering, he serves.
Jesus Christ suffered and died so we might have eternal life. With courage and faithfulness, Paul sacrificed himself to the ministry. He preached the gospel to all who were around him, even to the prison guards. He demonstrates – through his life and words – that he imitates Jesus, who shows self-denying concern for others. An attitude of self-centeredness helps no one; it only fuels greed and selfish resentment for what we don’t have and changes our gaze from God to the world. We live in a modern, desensitized era where the “care-for-self” became center stage in a world focused on pride.
Jesus unifies us in love, and His strength through us is clearly expressed in unselfishness. Through Him, we have profound contentment, serenity, and peace no matter what happens. The axis of this joy is knowing Jesus personally and depending on His strength, compassion, and love rather than our own.
Prayer: Father, thank You for the letter to the Philippians, so that we can learn what joy is and that, even in difficult circumstances, we have joy through Jesus. May we learn to serve with joy by focusing on You instead of the world and our selfish ambitions. Amen.
