Join in the Joy
Through the years, I have frequently preached about joy. It is more than an emotion (although it includes emotion); rather, it is a settled attitude, a stable and sturdy approach to life that focuses us on the things that matter now and forever. Joy is much greater and much more powerful than happiness, which is event or circumstance driven. There is nothing wrong with happiness. It is certainly better than unhappiness. Also, we have different personalities. For example, my wife is happy-go-lucky. Of course, she has every reason to be, being married to me. However, not everyone can be married to me. We need something more substantial than happiness; that something is joy. (I will be using this opening paragraph for each of the brief messages in this series. The following material will change daily.)
Paul believed fervently in the power of joy to overcome the bother and pother of the world. In Philippians 2:25-30, he writes about his fellow-laborer Epaphroditus. In verse 25, Paul calls him “my brother and companion in labour, and fellow soldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.” The intensity of these descriptions reveals Paul’s affection for and appreciation of this man. Clearly, Epaphroditus was a hard worker, laboring so consistently and intently that his health was seriously impaired (verses 27, 30). The Philippian church was doubly blessed: they had received this helpful epistle, and they had it brought to them by a now healthy Epaphroditus. In verse 28, Paul is certain that Epaphroditus’s presence will be a cause of rejoicing amongst the Philippian believers. Think of someone who has been a blessing to you, someone who is sturdy in the Spirit and loyal in the Lord’s labor. Then, rejoice that God in His goodness has brought this “fellow soldier” alongside.