KingdomView, Vol. IV, Issue 17 Scripture: Philippians 4:1-7
Today, we conclude our seven part sermon series for our 2012 church theme, “I Am the Spirit of the Ministry” (Acts 2:17). We finish with our seventh ministry value, ‘The Spirit of Joy.’ In our service to God and others, we want to perform ministry from an inner core of Christ-centered joy. Ministering from that frame of
reference is more consistent than attempting to minister from feelings of happiness because life and people can change the way you feel in a heartbeat. Since happiness is often motivated by how we feel, we have the tendency to allow our attitude (or feelings) in service to God and others to fluctuate based on our emotional disposition at that time. However, spiritual joy is not variable like feelings of happiness but can function even during adverse conditions (2 Corinthians 6:10; 7:4; 12:10; Colossians 1:11-13). The Apostle Paul addressed this issue with the church at Philippi by encouraging them to rejoice in the Lord always (Philippians 1:18; 2:17, 18, 28; 3:1; 4:4, 10). This truism raises an important question, “Why are believers to rejoice [operate in a spirit of joy] in the Lord always as they seek to minister to God and others?” I would like to suggest four reasons why:
1. Because the Bible commands it (Philippians 3:1; 4:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:16)
2. Because the Apostle Paul demonstrated this truth in the midst of his present situation (Philippians 1:12-14)
3. Because it should reveal the graciousness with humility within every believer towards others (Philippians 4:5a) and lastly
4. Because it produces peace that thwarts anxiety (or worry) because the believer has confidence that God is able and willing to do what is best for His children (Philippians 4:6, 7; Romans 8:28)
Accordingly, we must endeavor as believers to serve others with a spirit of joy in the Lord always. Moreover, when the Apostle Paul exhorts the Philippians to “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say rejoice,” he is making this assertion while imprisoned in Rome under house arrest (1:12-14). His incarceration is not prohibiting him from sharing the good news of Jesus Christ in the midst of his adverse circumstance in joy. He is even doing it with a heart filled with worship. The apostle has demonstrated in times past that he is no stranger to rejoicing in the Lord in stressful situations. The book of Acts records an encounter that the apostle and fellow travelling companion Silas were briefly imprisoned and beaten at Philippi (Acts 16:16-24). However, Paul and Silas “would not go quietly into the night,” but at midnight would conduct their own private praise and worship service (16:25). Their indomitable spirit of praise and joy caused God to hurl open the prison doors and break their shackles (16:26). Yes, Saints, we are to rejoice always, especially in times of trouble (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
Finally, Paul informs us that the peace of God will “guard” our hearts (Philippians 4:7). The word guard here is a military term meaning, “to keep watch over.” God’s peace guards believers from anxiety, doubt, fear and distress!
