22 October 2021
The Epistle Of Joy Chapter 4 – Part 7
We are continuing in the epistle of Philippians. In this series “The Epistle Of Joy Chapter 4” –
As we grow in the Lord and become familiar with the does and don’ts of the Christian life, it is easy to get complacent. We reason, “I know what the Scripture says, so why continue to study it?” We go through the outward motions of church attendance and Christian service, often becoming overly busy with religious activities. We think we have arrived.
Paul has experienced tremendous suffering caused both by his personal choices and persecution for the gospel’s sale. Despite all he has suffered he has, learned to experience a deeply abiding joy and peace, while keeping his heart and mind through Christ Jesus.
Part 7 – The goal for every Christian is not to be freed from circumstances, but to be self-sufficient in them, knowing “If God be for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31). This confidence in God can be obtained through learning, receiving, hearing, observing, and doing the Word.
Self-sufficiency combined with contentment produces confidence, but without contentment, self-sufficiency is nothing more than arrogance. Contentment is what separates the mature Christian from the sinner and carnal believer.