Scripture:
Philippians 1:1-2
Paul
and Timothy, bond-servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus
who are in Philippi, including the overseers and deacons: Grace to
you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Insights: The
book of Philippians has a predominant theme of one finding joy in the
Lord. Over the next many weeks we are
going to explore this subject of joy.
The reason I believe the Lord would have us examine such a topic is
because on this side of eternity we face all kinds of situations. Indulge me for a moment as I attempt to write
an illustration. Our lives resemble road
signs. Some of us are traveling through
the dangerous curves of life. Others are
experiencing construction zones. Still
others are facing detours in their lives.
And some have a green light and are traveling seventy miles an hour down
the road. When we are in the midst of
these different areas of life it is important for us to remember and recognize from
where our joy comes. The book of
Philippians is like a spiritual road map to get us back on the right road to
experience this journey in Christ and the joy that permeates such a life. So, let’s buckle up and start merging back on
to this spiritual road and ask the Lord to restore to us the joy of our
salvation (Psalm 51:12). The very first
place we must start in this spiritual car is to crank the engine and that is
done by receiving the gift of salvation in Christ Jesus our Lord. There is unspeakable joy knowing one is a
member of the family of God. In today’s
verses Paul starts off with a typical greeting of his in which he acknowledges
those who are his brothers and sisters.
So, one of the first things that helps restore joy in our lives is to
recognize our family, our true family in God.
Our true home, for those born again, is heaven. Our true family, again for those born again,
is this spiritual family. If you have
lost biological family members, then those who are spiritual family members are
more your real family than those whose relation is bond by blood. Paul wants us to know this most important
starting point in this journey in Christ and pursuit of joy.
Questions:
- Have you received Jesus as Your Lord and Savior?
- Are you enjoying the grace of the family of God?
Prayer: Father, thank
You for the family You have given to me.
May more enter this family by the grace You provide. Amen.
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