Living Free of anxiousness and fear, part 1: LIVING IN JOYScripture Phil. 4:4-8. I. IntroductionA. Paul writes the letter to Philippians to thank them for being kind to him in financial need. They gave a substantial gift. He also writes the letter to deal with issues of unity in the community. There were divisions in the community.B. Paul writes his letter from his first imprisonment in Rome. This letter is full of tenderness and affection for the Christians.C. The content deals with the grounds for Christian joy. Joy that is independent of the circumstances we find ourselves in. Essential to this joy is the confidence that Jesus is Lord. Christ alone is the source and ground of joy. It is based on the experience of the power of the risen Christ. II. PHIL. 4:4-5A. Vv.4-5. Paul commands the Christian to “rejoice”. Why is that? For Paul, the ground of joy comes from knowing the Lord; developing confidence in him. Knowing his power and wisdom and love for us.B. Vv. 5-gentleness (some translations: forbearance). Considerate; moderate; fair; it implies a way of dealing with others rooted in confidence in the Lord.The Lord is near: can mean the Lord is coming back: his 2nd coming. But also means the Lord is close to you. He lives in you. Mt. 28: Jesus said “I will never leave or forsake you.” We say the “Lord is with you” meaning His power and wisdom and character and attributes are “there” to you. III. Phil. 4: 6.A. V. 6. Anxiousness or worry-to be in two minds; going in two different directions.“But in every situation…” by prayer and petition-prayer here is an earnestness or intenseness; it is not based on “many” words but intenseness of the heart; prayer transfers the burden of the soul to the Lord;1. Prayer opens the gateway to peace.2. Thanksgiving-expresses confidence in the Lord and who he is for us; who we are to him. IV. Phil. 4:7.A. The peace of God- this is a sense of well being grounded in the knowledge and experience of the Lord for his people; one can still have conflict raging around us but live in peace and joy.B. Paul says this peace will “guard” the heart and mind-it is like a Roman sentry guarding one from the enemy. V. Phil. 4:8A. What we focus on matters? Paul exhorts us to think on these things…1. What is noble-worthy of respect2. Right-moral excellence3. Pure-clean, holy,4. Lovely and admirable-use of words that are full of graciousness5. Excellent or praiseworthy (some translations say “good report)-remembering the great deeds of the Lord; His acts of kindness and power;VI. Reflection1. If joy is grounded in the knowing the Lord, what does this mean about establishing a personal relationship with Him?2. Reflect on how prayer is so critical to the joy and peace we need.3. How can you integrate more prayer in your life? What changes in the schedule do you need to make?4. How does Bible reading and study help you to come to know the Lord and be grounded in Him?5. How can you integrate more of bible reading and study into your life?6. Where in your life now, do you need more joy?
