In a world filled with uncertainty, challenges, and heartaches, finding joy can be a struggle. Yet, the Bible—particularly the book of Philippians—reminds us that joy is not merely a fleeting emotion. It’s a choice we can hold onto, no matter what life throws our way. In Philippians, Paul encourages believers to find joy even in the midst of adversity. He offers a blueprint for us to follow when we’re struggling to keep our spirits lifted.
Joy is a Choice, Not a Feeling
Paul’s letter to the Philippians is often referred to as the “Epistle of Joy,” and for good reason. Despite being in prison, separated from his beloved church, Paul’s message was clear:
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4).
His call to rejoice wasn’t based on his circumstances, but on his relationship with God.
This is an essential lesson—joy isn’t something we simply wait for or hope will come our way when things go right. Joy is something we choose, something we cultivate even when life feels heavy. Just as Paul found joy despite being imprisoned and persecuted, we too can choose joy by focusing on the goodness of God in our lives.
Joy Comes from Trusting God’s Plans
In Philippians 1:6, Paul writes,
“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Even in uncertain times, we can rest assured that God is working behind the scenes.
When we feel overwhelmed by life’s struggles, holding on to the promise that God has a plan for us helps us look beyond the present moment. Trusting that God is working all things for our good (Romans 8:28) brings us peace, which in turn nurtures joy. It’s not about pretending everything is perfect but rather recognizing that we are part of a bigger story. One that ultimately leads to hope and fulfillment in Christ.
Joy is Found in Serving Others
One of the most profound aspects of Philippians is Paul’s example of joy in serving others. In Philippians 2:3-4, Paul writes,
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
Sometimes, our joy can be found when we stop looking inward and start looking outward. Serving others, even in small ways, can bring immense joy into our hearts. Helping someone in need or offering a kind word can shift our focus from our problems and remind us of the goodness in the world. Serving others with a heart of love and humility aligns us with God’s will and fills our lives with purpose and joy.
Peace Leads to Joy
Paul also encourages believers to
“do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6).
Anxiety and worry are major joy-stealers, but Paul reminds us that peace comes when we bring our worries to God and trust that He is in control.
When we surrender our fears to God and choose to trust in His peace, joy follows. It’s not a superficial happiness, but a deep, abiding joy that comes from knowing we are held in God’s care. The more we allow His peace to rule our hearts, the more we can experience the fullness of joy that only He can give.
Joy is Rooted in the Gospel
Finally, the ultimate source of our joy is the gospel—the good news that Jesus Christ lived, died, and rose again for our salvation. In Philippians 3:7-8, Paul says,
“But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord…”
The knowledge of Christ’s love for us, the security of our salvation, and the hope we have in Him is the bedrock of true, lasting joy. No matter how difficult our circumstances may be, the gospel offers a joy that cannot be taken away. As Paul reminds us, knowing Christ is the greatest treasure, one that brings peace and joy in all seasons of life.
Holding On to Joy in Every Season
So, how do we hold on to joy? By choosing to rejoice, trusting God’s plans, serving others, seeking peace, and remembering the gospel. These practices can transform our perspective, even in the midst of life’s challenges. It’s not about denying our struggles but about choosing joy despite them.
As Paul shows us, joy is not about our circumstances; it’s about our focus. When we focus on God, His plans, and His promises, joy becomes a deep well that we can draw from, no matter what we face.
Let’s hold on to that joy, knowing that in Christ, we have everything we need.
We will be talking through the Biblical meaning of joy and how to achieve it. As a church we will be studying The Joy Challenge by Randy Frazee together. Purchase your copy of The Joy Challenge at the Minooka, Seneca, Coal City or Shorewood Campus for $10 and join a Lifegroup. There are groups meeting in the Minooka, Channahon, Shorewood, Joliet, Morris, Coal City and Seneca communities on different days of the week at different times. If you aren’t local, we even have online lifegroups available!
