April 14 2013 How To Have Joy In Every Circumstance

HOW TO HAVE JOY IN EVERY CIRCUMSTANCE
Philippians 1:22-26

I rejoice, and I will continue to rejoice.

Four Secrets For Joyful Living

I. I need a perspective to live from.

Paul’s view of his circumstances:
Vs. 12 - Now, I want you to know brothers, that what happened to me has really served to advance the gospel.

Face Problems Joyfully

It caused a chain reaction Vs. 13
It has encouraged others Vs. 14
Romans 8:28 - And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.

LESSON: God has a purpose behind everyone of my problems.

II. I need a priority to live by.

Paul’s response to his critics:

Vs. 18 - But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached, and because of this, I rejoice.
Proverbs 3:6 - In everything you do, put God first, and He will direct you and crown your efforts with success.

LESSON: Focus on what really counts and let the rest go.

III. I need a power to live on.

Paul’s source of strength:

Vs. 19 - I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed.
Philippians 4:13 - I have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me.

LESSON: With God’s power nothing can devastate me.

IV. I need a purpose to live for.

Paul’s reason for living:

Vs. 21 - For me to live is Christ and to die is gain.
Philippians 3:13-14 - Forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Paul’s concern:
Vs. 22-26

LESSON: 
Jesus first.

Others second.

Yourself third.

For me to live is ____

HOW WOULD YOU FILL IN THE BLANK?