Pastor Scott Applegate
Four enemies of joy: Problems, People, Pressure, Pain
The allies of joy: Perspective and Praise
“Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear. It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. 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. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and God’s provision of 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, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me. Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.” Philippians 1:12-30 NIV
- The secret to finding joy in all circumstances is having the right focus
- I need to focus on God’s perspective rather than my problems (Vs. 12-14)
Paul realized that his “chains” resulted in:
- Evangelism: Palace guard (Unbelievers heard the good news)
- Encouragement: Believers became more confident in the Lord
What represents “chains” for you today?
- I need to focus on God’s priorities rather than difficult people (Vs. 15-19)
- Remember the important things
- Remember those who are making things better
- I need to focus on God’s eternal purposes rather than the temporary pressures of today (Vs. 20-26)
“To live is Christ” means:
- A lifetime commitment to kingdom living and thinking
- A deep longing to be with Jesus
- A desire to grow in unselfish love for others
How I fill in the following blank determines the reality of the source of my joy:
- For me to live is ___________________________
- I need to focus on God’s promises (the Good news) rather than the pain of life (Bad news) (Vs. 27-30)
Jesus is the Good News
Jesus is the superior promise
“For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God.” 2 Corinthians 1:20 NIV
“Surely the righteous will never be shaken; they will be remembered forever. They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.” Psalm 112:6-7 NIV
- Don’t be controlled by fear
- Don’t be confused by suffering