A common error is to mistake happiness for joy. Happiness is fickle, being dependent on external situations. On the other hand, joy is a state of being that is not tossed to and fro by every wind of circumstance. Paul penned Philippians in the chains of imprisonment, yet we see no dampening or diminishment of his joy. As we close our examination of this encouraging epistle, let us note some simple lessons on how we attain and maintain true joy. True joy comes by:
- Steadfastness of faith – “Therefore my beloved… stand fast in the Lord” (v 1).
- Being of one mind with my brethren – “I implore Euodias and Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord” (v 2).
- Knowing my name is in the Book of Life – “I urge you also, true companion… and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the Book of Life” (v 3).
- Rejoicing in every circumstance – “Rejoice in the Lord always. And again I will say, rejoice!” (v 4).
- Knowing the Lord is near – “The Lord is at hand” (v 5).
- Living above worry – “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God” (v 6).
- Living at peace – “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (v 7).
- Setting my mind on worthy things – “Whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things” (v 8)
- Finding a good example and following it – “The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you” (v 9).
- Learning to be content – “For I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content (v 11).
- Enduring through the power of Christ – I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (v 13).
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