The Christian's Joy "The Path to Peace and Joy" Phil. 4:4-7 The Commands (vv.4-6) 1 Pet. 4:13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. An Average Person's Anxiety Is Focused On… 40%—things that will never happen 30%—things about the past that can't be changed 12%—things about criticism by others, mostly untrue 10%—about health, which gets worse with stress and worry 8%—about real problems that will be faced. Reasons for Joy- Not Worry (Matt. 6:25-34) God's Priority and Provision (6:25-30) Psa. 34:10, The young lions suffer want and hunger; but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing. 104:28, When you give it to them, they gather it up; when you open your hand, they are filled with good things. God will provide needs for His children. Psa. 127:2 It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep. God's Promises (Ro. 8:28) God's Purposes (Ro. 5:3-4) Ja. 1:2-3 2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. The Comfort (v.7) |