The shorter books of the NT are sometimes deemed as less significant. True, Philippians is no Romans, Hebrews, or Corinthians. But there are some rich truths we can glean both from the content and the context of this shorter epistle of Paul. Consider a few points from history. Paul wrote this while he was under house arrest in Rome, around the time Acts concludes. This point is almost unanimously agreed upon today by scholarship. Several verses in this epistle support this point as well (see 1:7, 12-14; 4:22). Furthermore, not only was Paul in prison, but he was awaiting a verdict that would either release him or forward his execution (see 1:19-26). To say that the circumstances were less than ideal would appear to be a great understatement. Yet, this is the epistle that carries the dominating theme of JOY… How incredible! 

Our joy can overcome the trying circumstances of an oftentimes cruel world. 

Our joy can overcome the circumstances of life even when life is at its worst. 

Our joy can empower us to get up and get back out there. 

Our joy can inspire others who may be struggling with the same harshness of circumstances. 

I don’t know where you are, or what you are going through, but you need to know our JOY is beyond this world and the things therein. We can get back up and go back to work with a smile on our faces because the world isn’t all bad. We still serve a good God who knows and cares. We can see the light at the end of a sometimes dark tunnel because God is there. 

Don’t let the doldrums of life get you down. Paul didn’t. 

Maybe your circumstance is the failing health of a loved one. Keep the joy of your faith. 

Maybe your circumstance is the poor decisions of a loved one. Keep the joy of your faith. 

Maybe your circumstance is the discouragement of being holy in an ungodly world. Keep your joy. 

Maybe your circumstance is the unknowns of the future, finances, retirement, children and grandchildren, or some other concern… Keep. Your. Joy. 

See through the pain and the harsh reality of a life under the sun. Look forward to the Author and Finisher of our faith, see Jesus Christ; the hope of glory (Rom. 5:2; Col. 1:27; Titus 2:13).