The Joy Test: Philippians 2:17-18
“17) But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all. 18) You too, I urge you, rejoice in the same way and share your joy with me.” Philippians 2:17-18
Some have observed that one of the themes of the book of Philippians is “joy” or “rejoice.” Paul used these two words 16 times in this small book. That’s a lot. He was making a point!
It should be noted that joy is the second fruit of the Spirit mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23. It became a distinguishing characteristic of the early Christians and often showed up in the midst of persecution and suffering. (See 1 Thessalonians 1:6 and James 1:2-4)
Joy changes our perspective and is contagious. Paul found joy in pouring his life out to serve others and they in turn shared their joy with him.
Joy is not the same as happiness, but they are close relatives. Joy is not dependent on outer circumstances. It seems to be more the umbilical cord connecting us to the presence of God despite external circumstances. Joy is not the absence of suffering but the overflow of walking in the Spirit.
Love, joy and peace are the most common denominators found among true believers world-wide. They are present despite poverty or prosperity, sickness or health, times of peace or times of persecution. To the natural person this seems odd.
This phenomenon is true because joy is a function of the spirit and not the body or soul. Happiness is more connected to the soul. The absence of joy is an indication that your spirit is not alive or functioning.
I question the salvation of an habitually grumpy and grouchy person. As mentioned, joy is one of the underlying themes of the book of Philippians. Paul was using joy as a measuring stick for a genuine relationship with God.
Be honest, do you pass the joy test? If you fail, I encourage you to run to the cross for a personal faith encounter with Jesus Christ. You might be religious but lost. The flesh cannot fake these crucial fruits of the Spirit.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global
“17) But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all. 18) You too, I urge you, rejoice in the same way and share your joy with me.” Philippians 2:17-18
Some have observed that one of the themes of the book of Philippians is “joy” or “rejoice.” Paul used these two words 16 times in this small book. That’s a lot. He was making a point!
It should be noted that joy is the second fruit of the Spirit mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23. It became a distinguishing characteristic of the early Christians and often showed up in the midst of persecution and suffering. (See 1 Thessalonians 1:6 and James 1:2-4)
Joy changes our perspective and is contagious. Paul found joy in pouring his life out to serve others and they in turn shared their joy with him.
Joy is not the same as happiness, but they are close relatives. Joy is not dependent on outer circumstances. It seems to be more the umbilical cord connecting us to the presence of God despite external circumstances. Joy is not the absence of suffering but the overflow of walking in the Spirit.
Love, joy and peace are the most common denominators found among true believers world-wide. They are present despite poverty or prosperity, sickness or health, times of peace or times of persecution. To the natural person this seems odd.
This phenomenon is true because joy is a function of the spirit and not the body or soul. Happiness is more connected to the soul. The absence of joy is an indication that your spirit is not alive or functioning.
I question the salvation of an habitually grumpy and grouchy person. As mentioned, joy is one of the underlying themes of the book of Philippians. Paul was using joy as a measuring stick for a genuine relationship with God.
Be honest, do you pass the joy test? If you fail, I encourage you to run to the cross for a personal faith encounter with Jesus Christ. You might be religious but lost. The flesh cannot fake these crucial fruits of the Spirit.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global
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