The letter of Paul to the Philippians was written when he was in prison. He had all the reasons in the world to complain and not be joyful or to call people for a pity-party.
But amazingly, among all his epistles, this is the only letter wherein he has the most spoken about joy. We record 16 times the mention of the words 'joy and rejoice. .
In "Philippians 4:4*, while still in prison, he instructs the church, and insists " *Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice*.
How can you be in prison and rejoice ? Is it possible to be in the storm and rejoice? How to go through tough time and rejoice at the same time? Can one be in pain and rejoice ? According to Paul, the answer is YES !
What was the secret behind Paul's unbreakable joy?
1. Paul was mature enough to refuse to give people opportunity to pity him or to feel sorry for him.
2 For Paul, Joy is not a feeling ... Joy is a person... Joy is Jesus Christ himself
*Philippians 1:21* For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain
3. For Paul, joy is not a product of chance ... Joy is a choice*
*Philippians 4:11* I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content...
4. Paul knew there was a turnaround ahead
Philippians 1:19 For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ
PRAYERS AND CONFESSIONS
1. Confess : People will never have the opportunity to pity me or feel sorry for me in the Name of Jesus Christ!
2. Confess : People will never have the opportunity to break Jesus living in me, so they cannot break his joy in me.
3. Confess : Nothing will have the opportunity to break my joy ... My God is in control of what happens ...No matter the circumstances I choose to be content and to rejoice.
4. Confess : Jehovah God will turn things around for me in the name of Jesus Christ.
So shall it be
Jesus is Lord
Pst TD KASUKU
WLC INT'L
NAIROBI/KENYA
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