PASTOR’S CORNER, Jeremy Harris, First Southern Baptist Church, Liberal
“For me to live is Christ and to die is gain.” ~ Philippians 1:21
Continuing my series on Paul’s words to the Philippians and how they can help us overcome the joy stealers in our lives.
Joystealer #3 - Circumstances…
This might be the hardest joy stealer to fight against. Circumstances are so often outside of our control. Illnesses that we never saw coming, job changes that lower our income, tires that need replacing, the A/C at the house going out, an unexpected pregnancy, a new friend from work, even willing the lottery can take out lives and throw them into such a whirlwind that joy can get lost in a hurry. In fact, this is the area of our lives where we often lose our Jesus lens. When circumstances affect us we often begin to look at Jesus through the lens of our circumstances rather than looking at our circumstances through the lens of Jesus.
Paul understood that when he finds his identity (to live is Christ) in Christ, circumstances begin to lose their power. When he finds his purpose and future in heaven, even the worst circumstances pale in comparison. Keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus can help us look at difficult seasons and recognize that those seasons do not control us, for our joy is found in something everlasting rather than in moments that will pass away. Let’s consider a few other verses…
2 Consider it a great joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you experience various trials, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4 And let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing. ~ James 1:2-4
33 I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world. ~ John 16:33
16 Rejoice always, 17 pray constantly, 18 give thanks in everything; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
28 We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. ~ Romans 8:28
Looking at circumstances through the lens of Jesus helps us to recognize that God has a plan and He doesn’t waste our moments. So, don’t be surprised when circumstances don’t always go your way, rejoice in your Lord who upholds you and holds your joy, and remember that God is working things together for your good if you are called according to His purpose!
God bless you and as Paul says in Romans 15:13 “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
