Philippians 4:4 – Advent Verse of the Day 12/15/13

Joy is one of the most important themes in Paul’s letter to the Philippians.  This verse repeats Paul’s early exhortation in 3:1.  His point is not that sadness or even discouragement are inherently sinful responses, for Jesus himself experienced such emotions (Luke 19:41; John 11:35).  Rather Christians should rejoice in God’s good gifts, and their mourning in the midst of difficulties should be shaped by a simultaneous trust in God.

As you pray, consider the reasons you have to rejoice in the Lord.  Pray that the Lord would help you to trust Him in the midst of difficulty and rejoice in His provision at all times.  Thank the Lord for His love and mercy, and especially because He has given you the ability and the reason to respond to His good gifts with joy.