Serving Others Leads to Joy

Gary DeLashmutt

Philippians 2:17-18

Paul gladly poured out his life in service to the Philippians. He viewed it as a privilege that brought him joy. He wanted them to likewise pour out their lives in service to others. We can find four tips for embracing a lifestyle of sacrificial service to others in Philippians 2:19-30. Tip #1: Focus on the spiritual welfare of a few specific people. Tip #2: Serve with other servants. Tip #3: Be willing to serve in whatever ways are needed. Tip #4: Be willing to take some risks in your service.

Peace with God

Ben Foust

Romans 5:1-11

Paul wraps up his extensive logical argument for God's offer of salvation, not through good works, but through receiving the gift of forgiveness through Jesus' payment on the cross. He finishes with a joyful celebration of all the good things that come to those who accept this gift, primarily peace with God. This peace opens the door to full, open access to God and hope for the future. All people who have received this gift should rejoice in these truths and fully explore them.

The Joy and Pain of Close Relationships

James Rochford

2 Timothy 4:9-18

Near the end of his life, Paul reflects upon the joys and pains of close relationships. He recounts the pain of betrayal of former friends and the joy of faithful friends. Loving this present world instead of our future eternal home, is often what leads friends to desert their walk with the Lord and their friends in the Body. We are not destined to become one of these types of friends. We get to choose what sort of friend we will be.

Good News in Bad Circumstances

Gary DeLashmutt

Philippians 1:12-18

Paul marvels at how God powerfully uses what to our eyes is a disaster but in God's eyes is an opportunity. Paul's imprisonment was not a serious setback but an incredible opportunity to spread the Gospel to all reaches of the Roman empire through the guards chained night and day to Paul. God is not hindered by the things that to us look like obstacles.

Is Pleasure Meaningless without God?

James Rochford

Ecclesiastes 2:1-11

There was no pleasure that King Solomon denied himself. He indulged himself in alcohol, entertainment, women, anything money could buy. Not that any of those things are wrong in themselves, but pursuing them for happiness or meaning is fruitless. He found all those things were meaningless. He discovered he could not enjoy the gifts apart from the Giver of the gifts, God.

How Does God Help When it Hurts?

James Rochford

1 Peter 4:12-19

The Bible warns us that suffering in this world is inevitable. The question is will you suffer as the world suffers, with surprise and complaining or will you suffer with joy and gratitude that you have received mercy instead of justice? Why is gratitude the right response to suffering? Gratitude gives us a "mental break" and places suffering in the correct context. Gratitude also reminds us we are not imprisoned victims of our circumstances. The real question is do you believe God is trustworthy or not?

Preparing Our Minds for Suffering

Conrad Hilario

1 Peter 4:12-19

Since suffering is inevitable in this world, Peter gives six principles for enduring suffering in ways that brings glory to God. Don't be surprised when you encounter suffering. Instead, rejoice in suffering, knowing that God will use it for your good. Make sure you avoid unnecessary suffering, such as suffering as the result of doing evil. When you do suffer, do not be ashamed of suffering for Christ. Entrust your soul to God who is your faithful Creator. Do what is right, for in due time you will receive your reward.

Spiritual Lifestyle in a Rugged World

Dennis McCallum

1 Peter 4:12-19

Peter offers six things to do or not do when encountering suffering as a Christian. Firstly, do not be surprised! Jesus told us the world first hated Him and will hate us as well. Secondly, keep on rejoicing. We can rejoice because suffering teaches us many valuable lessons. Thirdly, do not bring on unnecessary suffering by sinning. Fourthly, do not be ashamed because you bear the name of the One who was not ashamed to go to the cross for us. Fifthly, entrust your soul to a faithful Creator because surely the One who created you will also take care of you in all circumstances. Finally, continue in doing what is right even in the face of difficulties.

Keys to Victorious Suffering

Gary DeLashmutt

Colossians 1:24-2:1

Paul shares with the Colossians how he rejoices in his suffering not to gain their pity but to alleviate their distress. He gives them three keys to victorious suffering. First, we can endure suffering because God has revealed to us where history is headed. Second, we know we each have a unique role to play in God's plan. Third, we have access to God's power.