Michael continues that in Chapter 2 of Philippians, the joy thief is “strife and division in the church”. We experience the joy of the Lord when we are joined together in the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace. When we forsake our selfish pride and look unto the Lord, old things have passed away and behold all things have become new. Philippians 2:2 says, Fulfill ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.
God is the God of new beginnings. Contrary to popular opinion, the trials of life are a blessing. James 1:2-4says, My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith works patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that you may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. According to Romans 5, for tribulation works patience and patience experience and experience hope and hope makes not ashamed because the Holy Spirit is given to you. Through the trials of His refining fire, God will reveal His true character in us. He will teach us the meaning of hope and love. He will prove His nature in us in the fire, by the fire and through the fire.
In Chapter 3, the joy thief is “things”. What is it that you hold dear? What do you value in this life? Paul said, whatsoever things I have counted gain for me, I count them but rubbish that I may gain Christ. Therefore treasure treasures in heaven and not treasures upon earth. Everything that is seen is here today and gone tomorrow. This too shall pass. Everything in this world will come to naught. The things of this world will soon be past, only that which is done in Christ shall last.
In Chapter four, the joy thief is “worry”. Therefore rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice. Let your kindness and yieldingness in insignificant things be made known unto all men, the Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God which passes all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Rejoicing in the Lord is a command. It is a choice to rejoice, not in the things of this world, but in the Lord. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. His joy transcends the fleeting broken relationships, trials, and things of this world.
Joy thieves relentlessly pursue us without mercy. In our own power we have no defense against the adversary; the thief who comes to steal, kill and to destroy. However, when we trust in the Lord Jesus Christ, we will fulfill His purpose that we might have life more abundantly. When we walk in the light as He is in the light, the blood of Jesus Christ will cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Despite the troubles of this world, what shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Nay, in all things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Therefore, Joy to the world, the Lord is come. Let earth receive her King, that we may ever live to the praise of the glory of His grace!
Your brother in Christ, Michael
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