I mentioned my friend who, suffering from a brain tumor, is unable to read or write, and whose memory is fading, yet he can still preach.
If my battery was soon to run out there are five big statements from Philippians 3:1-14 that I would be happy to make my closing chapter. So one at a time…
- Make smiling a habit.
3:1 Whatever happens, my dear brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord. And… 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord, always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
Why? The next phrase is:
Let your gentleness be evident to all.
2:14 Do everything without complaining and arguing, 15 so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people. 2:14-15 (NLT)
Two comments about joy….
The first is that the effect of your joy can change the world; can change a life.
In an environment of cynicism and selfishness, the person who lives a life of transparent joy, truly does stand out like a shining light.
(Paul) Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he’s thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don’t let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good.
Romans 12:20-21 (The Message)
The second comment about joy is that it needs to have a source.
‘Rejoice in the Lord’ – a person cannot ‘rejoice in the Lord’ if he/she is not in the Lord.
Joy is not to be equated with wearing a smirk or a silly grin at all times.
The outward expression – ‘rejoice’ – is fed from an inner peace – joy.
Knowing in your head and your heart that you are loved by God, forgiven and accepted through Christ, secure forever.
Number 1 – Make smiling a habit. …… (Next week, number 2)