God's Peace and Joy

 

     When we can’t find an answer, when we don’t know how to get through the grief, or how to help a loved one, or what to do next, we can place our complete trust in Jesus. He has the answers. He knows the way through. He has the words of comfort for us to heal. He sees the next step and the one after that. There are millions of testimonies in history, up to the present day, reminding us and teaching us that God works through everything.

     The apostle Paul wrote several of his epistles from a dark, dank, smelly jail cell in Rome. He was chained to a guard at all times. All of these prison epistles are filled with gratitude to God, with an understanding that even then, the good news of the gospel would be preached. He was filled with joy.

     He and his other Christian cellmates sang songs of praise and joy, stunning their captors and other prisoners. The book of Philippians is shares  deep joy,  peace that passes all understanding, and the call for believers to shine as stars.  Here are a few verses to take with you today.

Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. Philippians 1:12

For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. Philippians 1:21

So that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation. Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky. Philippians 2:15

Rejoice in the Lord always! I will say it again. Rejoice! Philippians 4:4

I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

     The verses in the book of Philippians are worth reading time and time again. Put some to memory and take them out when you are feeling anxious, weak and overwhelmed. No matter the circumstances in our lives, God is there. Continue to shine like stars in this warped generation, to rejoice always! God is good, all the time and He remains on the throne. Stay filled with His peace and joy as we continue to marvel at His mysterious ways. Maybe, just maybe, this time in your life will be used for our God.

Lord,

Thank You for the examples of faith both in Scripture and in life. Teach us by example to rely on Your great love and strength to get us through life, all of it with peace and joy, always striving to shine with Your glory.

In Jesus name,

Amen