Focus

Further, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you.
Philippians 3:1

In this transitional sentence, Paul is preparing the Philippians to hear a warning he shared with them previously, but before he does he calls them to focus their attention on rejoicing in the Lord. This letter is filled with reasons and reminders to rejoice in what God is doing in and through the church.

We find joy in major events like births, graduations, promotions, and accomplishing life goals. We find joy in small things like beautiful moments in nature, making a card or gift for a loved one, or a well timed bowl of ice cream. Joy covers a lot of territory, but Paul qualifies the expression of joy as “in the Lord”.

How often, how comprehensively, and how deliberate are you rejoicing in the Lord?

This great call to REJOICE! is a faith building exercise to do at home, in marriages, with Christian friends, in groups, and as a whole church. Make a list of all God has done, sing songs that celebrate God’s gift of grace and new life, share what you appreciate about God with others. Finding delight in God’s creation, his promises, his great acts of mercy, and his faithfulness to each of us can become a spring that overflows with praise and joy even in the midst of difficult times. What would a week of focus on rejoicing in God yield in your life?

Try it and tell us what you notice.

Giver of Good Gifts,
We are full of thanksgiving for your many blessings. Help us to find the voice, the artfulness, and the focus to rejoice in all that you are and all you have done for us. Fill us with a renewed understanding of your great love for us. We pray that our joy might overflow so that others will desire your presence in their lives too! We pray these things for the glory of Christ Jesus, Amen