December 06, 2019: SOAP #3655:  Philippians 1-4

Scripture:  Philippines (NIV) 1:23 …I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; 24 but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. 25 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, 26 so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me.

Observation:   Knowing for certain that it was better for their sake to remain, Paul knew that he would remain.   He would continue working with them for their progress and joy in the faith.   I like the way Paul speaks of the joy of faith.  It seems that too many Christians have forgotten that faith is a joyful thing!

True faith is a joyful thing.  How could it be otherwise?  Confident that God is with me; confident that He is for me; confident that He is able to overcome every obstacle I face—surely that is a joyful faith!

Application:  Some Christians are always thinking about how hard it is to live for Jesus.  They talk like the devil is always troubling them and they are wondering what he might do next.  That does not leave a very desirable witness for the world.  But when the “joy in the faith” shines out of a believer’s life, it makes their faith desirable.

Prayer:   Holy Spirit, when I get in a tough spot, remind me that I have a joyful faith.  Help me to shine forth a joyful faith to those around me.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!