How to Live Worthy through the Awesome Power of Jesus Christ

            After Paul’s loving introduction to the Colossian church, he reveals his prayer for them.  A prayer we might also pray for ourselves and others.  In it he writes, “so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way” (Colossians 1:10 NET).  How can I ever do that in such a broken world with a heart so filled with humanity myself?  Can any of us do this? Afterall, does not Romans 3:23 tell us, “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”? Knowing that my redemption is dependent on Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.  And recognizing that my only hope of righteousness is found in His covering me with His cloak of righteousness. Then how can I ever live worthy of the Lord?

            So, as we delve into the letter to the church of Colossae, let us also keep this thought in mind.  Let each of us search our own hearts to seek the answer to that question, “How can I live worthy of all that He has done for me? In the end I think we will find that we only can through the awesome power of Jesus Christ.  Still, what does that look like and how do we learn to live in that power.  He was victorious over sin and death.  The Holy Spirit indwells us with His power, and we only must learn how to turn on the power switch.  So let us begin.

Introduction

 From Paul,[a] an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, 2 to the saints, the faithful[b] brothers and sisters[c] in Christ, at Colossae. Grace and peace to you[d] from God our Father![e]   (Colossians 1:1-2 ESV)

Note the inscription.  Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God.  He was not one of the original while Christ walked on this earth; but he is one of the 12 apostles because Christ chose him to be.  Christ met him on the road to Damascus.  This was a proper introduction seeing that Paul had not been to Colossae.  They had heard of him through Epaphras, “a[o] faithful minister of Christ on our[p] behalf (Galatians 1:8).  Yet Paul addresses them rightly as his own family—brother and sisters in Christ, declared as saints before God. 

Where does hope and love come from?

Paul goes on to commend their hope and love; then, he reminds all of us of where true hope and love begins.

3 We always[f] give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, 4 since[g] we heard about your faith in Christ Jesus and the love that you have for all the saints. 5 Your faith and love have arisen[h] from the hope laid up[i] for you in heaven, which you have heard about in the message of truth, the gospel[j] 6 that has come to you. Just as in the entire world this gospel[k] is bearing fruit and growing, so it has also been bearing fruit and growing[l] among you from the first day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth. 7 You learned the gospel[m] from Epaphras, our dear fellow slave[n]—a[o] faithful minister of Christ on our[p] behalf— 8 who also told us of your love in the Spirit. Galatians 1: (ESV)

Our hope is not in this world, but heaven.  Our faith and love arise from this hope, remembering all this brokenness is only momentary.  We are on a long camping trip in the wilderness, heading to our final home.  Realizing that we gain strength and momentum to keep on keeping on with joy in our hearts.  That helps us to live worthy, keeping our focus on Jesus. 

Steps on How to Live Worthy

Paul records a prayer which provides the steps on how to live worthy and what that looks like.  This is a prayer we can pray for ourselves and others.  So, I will put it here in its entirety, then we will break down the steps found within. 

9 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives,[e] 10 so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11 being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, 12 and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you[f] to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.13 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. (Galatians 1 NET)

3 steps Necessary To Live Worthy

  1. “Ask God to fill you with the knowledge of His will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives”.  To turn on the switch, we must ask Him to guide us and direct us.  Open our minds and heart to listen to His wisdom and understanding.  RESULT:  We live a life worthy and please him in every way, bearing fruit in every good work.
  2. Grow in the knowledge of God.  This is both a step—in that we must study His word to grow in the knowledge of God and a result of #1.  RESULT:  we are strengthened with all power according to His glorious might.  When we grow in His knowledge, we become aware of His Almightiness.  That in turns strengthens us; because we know His power is in us which leads to endurance and patience in the face of trials 
  3. giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you[f] to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.   Sing a song of praise! Why?. 13 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. RESULT:  Our joy overflows into a life who out of love desires more than anything to live worthy.

Furthermore, to live worthy, we must never forget

The Supremacy of Christ

15 [aa] He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn[ab] over all creation,[ac]
16 for all things in heaven and on earth were created in him—all things, whether visible or invisible, whether thrones or dominions,[ad] whether principalities or powers—all things were created through him and for him.
17 He himself is before all things and all things are held together[ae] in him.
18 He is the head of the body, the church, as well as the beginning, the firstborn[af] from the dead, so that he himself may become first in all things.[ag]
19 For God[ah] was pleased to have all his[ai] fullness dwell[aj] in the Son[ak]
20 and through him to reconcile all things to himself by making peace through the blood of his cross—through him,[al] whether things on earth or things in heaven.

We can live worthy only because He IS WORTHY OF ALL HONOR AND PRAISE AND GLORY FOREVER. 

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoy poetry perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

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How To Have Joy That Supersedes Every Circumstance of Life

Disclosures

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Credits

New English Translation (NET)

NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

New King James Version (NKJV)

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

How To Have Joy That Supersedes Every Circumstance of Life

Life is filled with surprises, changes, and moments of trials.  It is a part of life in this broken world we live in.  Yet there are those moments of surprising joy which fill us with glimpses of glory.  For those who do not even know God, He provides so much common grace so all can see His glory displayed.  How wonderful to see the majestic beauty of God’s creation!  The experiences of feeling loved or being able to love.  When we realize the complexity of each human heart, body, and mind, the wonders of every part of nature: How can anyone deny God’s existence and presence.  Only through Jesus might we have such joy that supersedes all else.

15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16 For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or [e]principalities or [f]powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. 17 And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. 18 And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence. 19 For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness should dwell, 20 and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross.  Colossians 1:15-20 NKJV

Joy that Supersedes Difficulties

Paul wrote, “I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:11-13 ESV.

Have we learned that?  How does my heart remain filled with joy.  When work becomes hard.  When finances take an upside downturn.   Do we turn to Government? Or Friends? What about family?  Where and how can we find joy that supersedes every difficulty of life?  Can we see every circumstance as an opportunity rather than an upset?  Essentially that is what Paul explains.  If we recognize that every gift is from God and is an undeserved blessing.  Amid even the most difficult things, we can look forward to His blessing and lean into His strength.   How?

Philippians 4: (ESV)

4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. 5 Let your reasonableness[d] be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 What you have learned[e] and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

What does that look like?

Notice that Paul rejoices over the gift from the church of Philippi as so special.  Whatever they were able to send Paul saw their sacrifice and their love in it.  There had been a time in which they could not send anything.  He understood that and wanted them to know he saw their hearts of love throughout.  Furthermore, He recognized that their sacrificial giving would bring with it God’s blessings on them. 

Particularly, their gift revealed to Paul that they had not abandoned him nor God during this time of imprisonment.  He may have had moments of wonder over the months he had not heard from them.  But now, God had renewed his hope and his joy.

I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your[c] care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity.  Philippians 4:10 NKJV

How do we accomplish this in a busy world?

  1.  Focus on Jesus.  Sometimes I have found that the more I keep my eyes on Him whether by listening to worship music while I do things in the house or sermons playing in the background as I go to sleep.
  2. Morning and night take at least a moment to read one scripture and pray
  3. Pray as you drive, as you go to bed and when you get up.  Continue to cultivate your prayer life until it becomes a part of your life.  Talking with God throughout the day.
  4. Repent of sin as soon as it surfaces, so that you might remain always in the Spirit.
  5. Never forget the Holy Spirit is with you, inside you.
  6. God sometimes allows what He hates to accomplish what He loves. 
  7. Remember the love He has already bestowed on you.  When you would start to feel frustration or anger, know He loves you and think of all the good things He has blessed you with. 

Conclusion:

God has the best plan for each of us and He is Sovereign.  He wants us to have His joy inside us always.  For He is joy everlasting.  That is Joy that supersedes any trial we might face momentarily. Then, finally just sing.   “Turn your eyes upon Jesus.  Look full in wonderful face.  And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,   In the light of His glory and grace.” Helen Howarth Lemmel

It is hard to feel depressed, frustrated, or sad when singing praises to God. 

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoy poetry perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

Previous

Having One Purpose in Jesus Unites us into Joy, Peace and Harmony.  How?

Disclosures

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Credits

New English Translation (NET)

NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

New King James Version (NKJV)

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Having One Purpose in Jesus Unites us into Joy, Peace and Harmony.  How?

Having one purpose, one heart, and one life focused on Jesus Christ, our Lord unites us into Joy, Peace and Harmony.  But why then do we so struggle, even within the body of Christ?  How can it be that we separate, avoid, and even fight with our brothers and sisters in Christ?  We struggle with our emotions, or how they make us feel.  Perhaps it was an insult or a disagreement on politics, the masked versus the unmasked, or even the vaccinated versus the unvaccinated.  Certainly, there can be moments in which we disagree regarding doctrine and that is when we must come to the table humbly presenting the gospel truth.  Sometimes we may have misunderstood the scripture and the other helps us see clearer.

Yet, Paul made it very clear earlier in his letter that he was more concerned about their teaching the truth regarding the gospel message of Jesus Christ.  Not that we should compromise on His Word; but, rather we should focus mostly on the spreading of His Name as Savior and Lord.

Philippians 1; 15 Some indeed preach Christ even from envy and strife, and some also from goodwill: 16 [c]The former preach Christ from selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my chains; 17 but the latter out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel. 18 What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is preached; and in this I rejoice, yes, and will rejoice.

Stand Firm in Truth and Love

As Paul points out, there are divisions which come over trivialities that do not even matter.  Paul displays this also in many of his letters as he did in Romans 14.

Receive one who is weak in the faith, but not to disputes over doubtful things. 2 For one believes he may eat all things, but he who is weak eats only vegetables. 3 Let not him who eats despise him who does not eat and let not him who does not eat judge him who eats; for God has received him. 4 Who are you to judge another’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. Indeed, he will be made to stand, for God is able to make him stand.

Do not get me wrong, he does not want us to compromise on truth as he advised Timothy. 

2 Timothy 2:14 Remind them of these things, charging them before the Lord not to [a]strive about words to no profit, to the ruin of the hearers. 15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 16 But shun profane and [b]idle babblings, for they will [c]increase to more ungodliness.

But if we recognize that we are salt and light in a world that is perishing, then we must focus on that which is our mission to spread the gospel.  Is not that the one purpose in Jesus for which we must focus.   How can we do that if we a bickering, angry and showing everything but love to those who are our brothers and sisters in Christ?   And don’t think I am not pointing my thumb directly back at myself here. 

One Purpose in Jesus

Throughout the letter to Philippi, Paul has presented the core truths that lead to peace and joy.

  1.  God is Sovereign.  (1:6)
  2. He also presented the supreme worth of Jesus Christ in life and death. (3:8)
  3. As we embrace Christ with all that He is 6. To see the Law by Christ fulfilled,
  4. And hear His pardoning voice;
  5. Changes a slave into a child,
  6. And duty into choice. in us (through the work of the holy spirit) we merely glimpse at His Glory as He transforms us.  As we humbly surrender our heart to Him (recognizing as did Isaiah that we are persons with unclean lips in a world of unclean lips)

William Cowper wrote in his hymn “No strength of nature can Suffice”

 To see the Law by Christ fulfilled,
And hear His pardoning voice;
Changes a slave into a child,
And duty into choice.

  • As we are freed from the clutches of sin, so as to be free to humbly love others, counting them as better than ourselves
  • The joy and peace will free us to be fearless before the adversaries and the trials
  • Both in unity, love, joy, peace, and strength we present Christ to the world in a manner that they should desire Him because they see His glory shine through our lives. 
  • Thereby, He graciously allows us to be a part of accomplishing the final ultimate aim of everything—As Fanny Crosby wrote:

TO GOD BE THE GLORY

To God be the glory, great things He hath done,
So loved He the world that He gave us His Son,
Who yielded His life an atonement for sin,
And opened the life gate that all may go in.

  • Refrain:
    Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, let the earth hear His voice!
    Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, let the people rejoice!
    Oh, come to the Father, through Jesus the Son,
    And give Him the glory, great things He hath done.

But you might ask, how does that relate to unity in the church body?  It is everything. So with such a lengthy introduction, let me briefly write about Philippians 4.

Philippians 4:

Therefore, my beloved and longed-for brethren, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, beloved.

With gentleness of spirit, reaching out to those fellow worshippers of Christ in Philippi.  A church Paul had planted when the Holy Spirit drove him there.  It was begun with a handful of praying women and the jailer amazed by Paul singing praises to God from the jail cell.  He loved each individual believer. .  Therefore, when he had to talk about a division in that church; he did it with such gentleness of spirit.  Note the next verse. 

Be United, Joyful, and in Prayer

2 I implore Euodia and I implore Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3 [a]And I urge you also, true companion, help these women who labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the Book of Life.

Note how he began with I implore.  He was coming alongside these two women who for some reason had split into two groups.  Paul urged them to be of one mind, one purpose in Christ Jesus.  He also asked the “true companion” to help them resolve the dispute.  He recognized all the good that each had done and their labor of love for Jesus.  Then he provides to them the means of how to do this with the following admonitions.

4 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again, I will say, rejoice!   (Rejoicing does refocus us off the petty things of this world and place our eyes on Jesus.)

5 Let your [b]gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. 

6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Don’t be afraid.  God will guide you as you take that first step toward forgiveness, love, understanding, and peace with your brothers and sisters in Christ.

Meditate on These Things

8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.

This is true whether referring to your life or when you are referring to another Christian.  If only we could see their good rather than focusing on the thing that hurt us.

But above all else we focus upon having one purpose in Jesus Christ.  If we see this journey as a team then we will find joy, peace and harmony.  It is like the veterans I work with.  They say that when you go out onto that battleground, you must become ONE unit with ONE purpose.  Nothing else matters as much as this for obtaining victory, Unity of purpose is the only way to victory. It is also true as warriors for Jesus Christ.   

The only thing that will unite us with joy, peace, and harmony is having one purpose in Jesus Christ.  He is our victory. 

Ephesians 2:10

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoy poetry perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

PREVIOUS

In Christ Alone Our Joy is Found! How Can it Be?

Disclosures

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Credits

New English Translation (NET)

NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

New King James Version (NKJV)

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Photo by Chichi Onyekanne on Unsplash

In Christ Alone Our Joy is Found! How Can it Be?

          In a world so broken, pictured so well in the book of Ecclesiastes, where is Joy found?  We have a brain that can reason, feel emotions, and desires. Yet we live in a world where no lasting joy can be found by our own futile attempts.  Made with all this ability to feel and think. Made in the image of God.  Our capacity to love comes from His perfect love. Love existing eternally between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.  Thus, the triune God said, “Let us make man in our image.”  Endowed with the ability to reason, to choose, and to feel, we are keenly aware in this broken world that something is missing.  Joy is found only when we realize that we are incomplete until restored fully with our creator.

Distractions abounding around us, how can it be our joy is found in Christ Alone?  We search after everything else to fulfill. Money, position, love, things, family and philanthropic adventures never fill us. Despair abides still.   Paul said all these things were like dung (manure) compared to knowing Jesus Christ.  Why?

The Conclusion of Ecclesiastes?

Solomon had it all-Fame, wealth, human wisdom, and a list of accomplishment beyond other men. Yet, nothing brought him joy. It was all like a vapor of smoke, an illusion. Thus, he concluded that the only thing that matters is to “Fear God (with a reverent loving fear) and follow His commandments.  Therein Joy is found.  A joy that supersedes all our trials and difficulties.  Joy is found with overflowing peace regardless of the circumstances only in Christ Alone.  He can satisfy all the needs of our heart, heal all the broken places, and give us strength to stand against every evil dart that comes our way. 

Jesus Christ Alone Surpasses Everything

3 1Finally, my brothers and sisters,[a] rejoice in the Lord! To write this again is no trouble to me, and it is a safeguard for you.2 Beware of the dogs,[b] beware of the evil workers, beware of those who mutilate the flesh![c] 3 For we are the circumcision,[d] the ones who worship by the Spirit of God,[e] exult in Christ Jesus, and do not rely on human credentials[f] 4 —though mine too are significant.[g] If someone thinks he has good reasons to put confidence in human credentials,[h] I have more:  Philippians 3:1-4 (NET)

So, why did Paul say we are the circumcision?  Not all of us are Jews.  Yet, we are those who have had our hearts circumcised for the name of God through accepting Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.  He has bought us with a price.  Outward circumcision means nothing, unless ones heart is circumcised.  God said, “ 16 Therefore circumcise the foreskin of your heart, and be stiff-necked[b] no longer. 17 For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality nor takes a bribe.” Deuteronomy 10: 17 (NKJV)

To Count All Human Accomplishments as Nothing

Paul was a Pharisee of the Pharisees.  His credentials were high but meant nothing.  If anything, they were a liability that caused him to persecute the Christians until one day he met Jesus Christ.  That day he lost his prestigious position, his political power, and threw aside his worldly lustrous position to suffer pain, persecution, and great trials.  Yet, he discovered that joy, true joy is found in Christ alone. 

Joy is Found in Loss

How can it be that Joy is found in Loss? It certainly is not what we would normally think of?  Listen to how Paul describes it. 

7 But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. 8 Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith; 10 that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, 11 if, by any means, I may attain[b] to the resurrection from the dead.  Philippians 3:3-11 (NKJV).

Whatever we must lose here on this earth is nothing compared with knowing Jesus Christ, for Christ alone can fill the empty longing within our heart.  We all long for eternity.  That longing did not come by chance—it came because we were created for eternity.  Death is a result of sin; but our souls live on into eternity.  We will live in eternity spiritually alive in Christ alone or eternally continue in spiritual death separated from God Himself.  That is according to your choice here.  Afterall if you want nothing to do with Jesus here, God will respect that wish throughout eternity.  He gives you freedom to choose. 

Joy Is Found in Suffering.

Suffering? Joy?  The two do not sound as if they go together.  Read verses 9-11 again.

To “be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith; 10 that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, 11 if, by any means, I may attain[b] to the resurrection from the dead.  Philippians 3:9-11 (NKJV).

Often, I hear veterans say it is their honor to have served defending freedom, even when they have lost so much.  Many have scars that run deep.  Limbs that don’t work and chronic pain.  Yet, because they love this country and the concepts of freedom on which our constitution stands, they would do it all again. 

And What About Us?

How much more should we as Christians be willing to suffer loss here on earth because of love and gratitude to the one who gave all to give us life.  He took all the penalty of my sin on His shoulders.  The older I get, the more I recognized how much He bore for me. 

Therefore, Paul continues to say that he would rather choose to know and gain Christ than anything else. Even if that means sharing the suffering that Jesus endured.  Having gained righteousness not his own. Rather the righteousness of Christ to cloak him forever because he believed in Jesus Christ alone for his salvation.  Because of the sacrifice that Christ Alone faced for Paul, he was willing to suffer with Him. Thus to know Him and the power of His resurrection to life eternal. To be alive spiritually forever in the presence of his joy.

Pressing toward the mark

12 Not that I have already attained,[c] or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. 13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have [d]apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

15 Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you. 16 Nevertheless, to the degree that we have already [e]attained, let us walk by the same [f]rule, let us be of the same mind.

I don’t know about you, but I am not yet perfected.  My righteous would be like filthy rags were it not for Jesus Christ cloaking me in His righteousness.  One day when I stand before Him, I will look like Him.  Until that day, I must learn to surrender my petty wishes and desires. Thereby allowing the Holy Spirit to transform my heart daily.  Whatever it takes let me look to Him for my only hope.  For in Christ alone my joy is found.

Let Us Also Press to the mark where Joy is Found in Christ alone

17 Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern. 18 For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19 whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame—who set their mind on earthly things. 20 For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.  Philippians 3:17-21

Amen and let my praises be to Christ Alone where Joy is found eternally in His presence. 

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoy poetry perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

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How Can Humility and Unity in Love Lead to Perfect Joy?

Disclosures

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Credits

New English Translation (NET)

NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.

New King James Version (NKJV)

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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How Can Humility and Unity in Love Lead to Perfect Joy?

In a society which tends to focus on self-fulfillment, it might sound strange that humility and unity in Love could lead to Perfect Joy.  We gain more by laying aside our own selfish desires and putting the needs of others before our selves.  How could that be the way to perfection in Joy? Yet, that is precisely what Paul the apostle is saying to the church of Philippi.  During a time in which Paul the Apostle was on house arrest, tethered with a chain 24 hours a day to a Roman Guard.  His back was scarred from all the beatings.  He had been stoned and left for dead.  Shipwrecked.  Most of us would be depressed and discouraged.  Yet, here was Paul writing a letter to the Philippi announcing that joy is found in Jesus Christ. 

Endowed with the same power of God, that raised Jesus from the dead, Paul encourages the people hold fast in love and unity of love.  That requires the humility of Christ.  Each believer holds the power to victory and perfection in Joy within their hearts because of the indwelling Holy Spirit.  Sometimes though we get distracted.  Being united in Spirit comes by all having one purpose.  That purpose is to spread the gospel far and wide. 

Perfect Joy through Humility and Unity in Love

Philippians 2 (NET) Therefore, if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort provided by love, any fellowship in the Spirit,[a] any affection or mercy,[b] 2 complete my joy and be of the same mind,[c] by having the same love, being united in spirit,[d] and having one purpose. 3 Instead of being motivated by selfish ambition[e] or vanity, each of you should, in humility, be moved to treat one another as more important than yourself. 4 Each of you should be concerned[f] not only[g] about your own interests, but about the interests of others as well.[h] 5 You should have the same attitude toward one another that Christ Jesus had,[i]

6 [j] who though he existed in the form of God[k]
did not regard equality with God
as something to be grasped,
7 but emptied himself
by taking on the form of a slave,[l]
by looking like other men,[m]
and by sharing in human nature.[n]
8 He humbled himself,
by becoming obedient to the point of death
—even death on a cross!

God’s Response


9 As a result God highly exalted him
and gave him the name
that is above every name,
10 so that at the name of Jesus
every knee will bow
—in heaven and on earth and under the earth—
11 and every tongue confess
that Jesus Christ is Lord
to the glory of God the Father.

Lights in the World—Perfect Joy

12 So then, my dear friends, just as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence but even more in my absence, continue working out your salvation with awe and reverence,[o] 13 for the one bringing forth in you both the desire and the effort—for the sake of his good pleasure—is God. 14 Do everything without grumbling or arguing, 15 so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without blemish though you live in a crooked and perverse society, in which you shine as lights in the world[p] 16 by holding on to[q] the word of life so that on the day of Christ I will have a reason to boast that I did not run in vain nor labor in vain. 17 But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice together with all of you. 18 And in the same way you also should be glad and rejoice together with me.

When we consider all that Jesus did, should we not be of the same mind?  Always placing Him first.  For if we love Him sincerely, our hearts must be humbled, and we must be always about His work of spreading the gospel message far and wide.  And He places fills our heart with perfect joy beyond anything we could imagine or hope for.  All this world offers is counterfeit joy that leads ultimate to despair.  Vanity of Vanity, all is vanity and vexation of spirit apart from His abiding perfect Joy.  What a gracious privilege He has given us that He has called us the Children of God.

Perfect Joy in Him through humble Obedience

As He walked toward the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prayed to the Father, “these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves.” John 17:13

Psalm 16:11

You lead me in[x] the path of life.[y]
I experience absolute joy in your presence;[z]
you always give me sheer delight.[aa]

Jesus tells us, “5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains[o] in me—and I in him—bears[p] much fruit,[q] because apart from me you can accomplish[r] nothing …. 9 “Just as the Father has loved me, I have also loved you; remain[ac] in my love. 10 If you obey[ad] my commandments, you will remain[ae] in my love, just as I have obeyed[af] my Father’s commandments and remain[ag] in his love. 11 I have told you these things[ah] so that my joy may be in you, and your joy may be complete. 

And What is it that He commands of Us for Perfect Joy?

12 My commandment is this—to love one another just as I have loved you.[ai] 13 No one has greater love than this—that one lays down his life[aj] for his friends. 14 You are my friends[ak] if you do what I command you. 15 I no longer call you slaves,[al] because the slave does not understand[am] what his master is doing. But I have called you friends, because I have revealed to you everything[an] I heard[ao] from my Father. 16 You did not choose me, but I chose you[ap] and appointed you to go and bear[aq] fruit, fruit that remains,[ar] so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he will give you. 17 This[as] I command you—to love one another.

His desire for us is to be overflowing in perfect joy, not based on our circumstances.  Rather based on our relationship with Him that the Holy Spirit may fill us with His perfect Joy always. When we are filled with His Perfect Joy we will love others, desiring they come to know Him. All envy and strife disappears because we love as He loves. We do not enter in and participate in sin to show that love. Rather with gentleness and humility we shine forth the light of truth.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.

For Prayer or Comments

If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here

Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here

Poetry Books Available

If you enjoy poetry perhaps you would like to read more of my poetry in my newest book which can be found on Amazon

PREVIOUS

Can Joy Be Found by Giving Up All for Jesus Name?
Disclosures

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2021
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Credits

New English Translation (NET)

NET Bible® copyright ©1996-2017 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. http://netbible.com All rights reserved.