Daily Devotional
Are You Experiencing Joy Today?
“I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Philippians 4:12-13
September 29, 2024
Ponder This
I heard of a little boy and an old preacher who both went out to see the Grand Canyon. The old preacher wrote back to his wife, saying, “Today, I’ve seen the handiwork of God. I’ve seen God as He put colors on His palette and as He took His fingers and sculptured a masterpiece.” And he went on in grandiose words to describe the Grand Canyon. The little boy wrote back to his mother: “Guess what Mama? Today, I spit a mile.”
You can be surrounded by beauty and not see it. Do you have eyes to see the beauty God has given to the world? Earlier, in Philippians 4:8, Paul said to meditate on “whatever things are of good report.”
The Book of Philippians was written from a prison but smells of Heaven. There is peace, hope, joy, even from that dark place. In verse 11, Paul told the people not to feel sorry for him. He said, “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.” Paul could live with joy and a hopeful outlook because he had Christ. Today, you have the same beauty and hope to behold, regardless of your circumstances.
- What is your outlook on life like right now? How has God shaped the way you see the world?
- What would it look like to live content in Christ? What would be different? What would stay the same?
Practice This
Start a challenge with a friend to go through an entire day with a joyful outlook without complaining.
FOR YOUR GIFT TO THE MINISTRY
What is the mission of the Church?
Love Worth Finding's newest book, "A Final Charge to the Church, "is based on the final series of messages Pastor Rogers preached before retiring in 2005. Pastor Rogers wanted to prepare his congregation for the future. In doing so, he provided a biblically sound blueprint that applies to all Christians on topics including unity among believers, standing strong in opposition to the enemy (Satan), the power of the Holy Spirit to change lives, steadfastness in prayer, true worship, faithfulness to God's Word, caring for others, and the kingdom authority given to believers in Jesus Christ. The book is a great read for all believers who want to become better prepared, as the bride of Christ, to be radiant, pure, and faithful to Jesus, the living Word of God.
