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by Meghan McSwain
I agree with Chuck Swindoll that one must choose joy. In his book, Laugh Again, he studies the book of Philippians, and the importance of being joyful. While discussing this conclusion, I was asked how one can choose joy. I know what helps me to maintain my joy, but I was unable to immediately give a three point sermon on the subject. So, I was led to the Scriptures to study how one does choose joy. Over the next several months I want to share what I have discovered with you.
First, we need to look at what joy is not. Joy is not happiness. Happiness is a feeling that one gets when his or her circumstances are positive. It is how I feel when things are going my way. Joy is an attitude that I choose regardless of my circumstances. In Philippians 4:11 Paul tells us that he has learned to be content, whatever his circumstances: this is joy! We will study this point more later.
I found the best explanation for how to choose joy in Philippians 4:4-9. This will be the outline for our study, but before we look at this scripture specifically, let's look at Paul's letter as a whole.
- It is important to note that Paul is writing this letter to the believers in Philippi. He is writing to the church, a fellowship of believers. "It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart; for whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God's grace with me." (Php. 1:7) Fellowship is an important element in choosing joy. We were created for fellowship. Being created as social being, it is natural for us to desire fellowship. "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." (Ecc. 49-12) The challenge is to find fellowship opportunities that will build us up versus tearing us down. Here at FBC of Cary, we are blessed with a Singles Ministry that provides us with opportunities to fellowship with other believers. By the time you are reading this, you will have had the opportunity to complete a survey from the Single Adult Council. Much of the focus of the survey is on fellowship. From the information gathered from the survey, the council will plan activities that we have said we like to do. If we are going to build lasting, positive relationships with other single adults, we must spend time together. No one can develop a relationship in one hour a week, and this goes for building a relationship with God, as well as with another person. Many of you may be looking for a special relationship with one person, and that may happen, but this is not what I am talking about. I challenge all of us to take advantage of opportunities for fellowship with other believers available to us at FBC of Cary. Just do it!
- "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" (Php. 4:4). Paul tells his readers to rejoice in the Lord...celebrate in God...worship! How do you worship? Worship is more than coming to the church building during a particular time. Worship is a verb, so if we are going to worship, we must participate. I challenge all of us not only to come to the worship services, but to participate: sing, listen, pray, think, praise. Next, don't limit yourself to services at the church. What fills your cup? What makes your soul sing? This is worship. Make it a part of every day! For me, it is music. During my morning devotional time I have church!! My favorite is Southern Gospel and I pipe through the house and sing 'til my heart is full! Also, I have found Chuck Swindoll on the radio and I listen to him every morning. These things work for me, but may not be the best for you. I challenge you to search for how you worship your Lord best and do it!! Remember, joy is not bound to circumstances, so worship, rejoice, even when circumstances are painful. "Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed." (1 Pe. 4:12-13) Choose JOY!
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