Pastor’s Pen

Joy Under Pressure - November, 2018

Did you know that God wants you to be full of JOY? It’s true; He does. He wants this so much that He has even told you in the Bible how to get more JOY.

In November we’re teaching a series from the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians. It’s an exciting letter, with the theme of JOY running throughout it. We’ve called this series, “Joy Under Pressure.”

Many people look for JOY in things like their health, family and friends, and feeling like they’re making a difference. But what happens when one of these fails you? You lose your JOY. Depending on external circumstances for JOY results in you feeling like a yo-yo.

But true JOY is not dependant on your circumstance. It grows and thrives in the good times and the bad.

Writing from a prison cell, the Apostle Paul could write, “But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice” (Philippians 1:18).

What was his secret? The GOSPEL. Gospel means, “the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ.” The Gospel never changes; it is sure and steadfast. It is the source of all true JOY. When you know Jesus as your saviour, it won’t matter what may happen in your life, nothing can separate you from God’s love which grows into JOY.

One of my favourite bands, the NEWSBOYS, wrote a song called JOY. I’ve included a link to it below. They sing this line: “The world don’t give it and the world can’t take it away.” That’s JOY. It comes from Jesus.

God’s people are meant to be the most JOYful people on the planet. Learn to build your life on the Gospel of Jesus Christ and you’ll begin to know this reality for yourself.

Blessings,
Pastor Phil