I will continue to rejoice. Philippians 1:18
Today’s Scripture
Philippians 1:18-21
Listen to Today’s Devotion
Today’s Devotion
Nancy’s cancer treatment caused so many ulcers in her mouth and throat that she couldn’t even swallow a piece of bread. She had to rely on milk to fill her stomach for many painful days. The only thing that brought a smile to the sixty-year-old’s face was the joy of knowing Jesus—and her grandsons. Being with them each week helped her to not dwell on her situation. “If not for the boys, I would have given up,” she said.
The apostle Paul also found joy in Jesus and others despite his difficulties. His joy came from Jesus and living for Him. Despite being imprisoned (Philippians 1:13), he found strength to encourage others. He spoke of the joy that came from partnering in sharing the good news about Jesus, and from knowing what awaited him upon death (vv. 3-5, 18, 20). That confidence enabled him to say, “To me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (v. 21).
Paul could rejoice because Jesus was his life. His sense of contentment and security didn’t come from any possession or situation but from knowing he belonged to Christ. Thus, in a letter written in the worst of circumstances, he could say in Philippians 4:4, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”
May we find joy in Jesus, who loves us, cares for us, and gives us strength to rejoice in any circumstance.
Reflect & Pray
What challenging situation are you facing now? What difference does it make to know Jesus is always with you?
Please grant me the strength to press on and keep my eyes on You, dear Jesus, for Your presence brings me joy.
Today’s Insights
As Paul endured imprisonment, he knew that not all who taught the good news of Jesus did so with good motives. He noted how some “preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains” (Philippians 1:17). Yet he found joy even amid these personal offenses by never losing sight of his mission—preaching the good news of Jesus. By doing so, he exemplified the spirit of Christ, who embraced suffering in order to glorify His Father in heaven. Later in this letter, the apostle writes, “I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death” (3:10). In this life, we’ll face attacks that will offend us personally. Like Paul, we can find joy in our trials. They make us more like Christ.
For further study, read In His Presence.
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