When we find ourselves in difficult circumstances, it’s easier to surrender to cynicism than to fight for joy. Consider how naturally we grumble and complain when things get hard. We do so without much thought or effort. Nursing our bitterness and isolating ourselves from others might feel like an easier path, but it’s one that damages us along the way. Cynicism robs us of the joy and character formation that God intends for us in the life of faith.
The apostle Paul's letter to the Philippians exudes great joy, despite him writing it while under house arrest. If there was ever a time for cynicism, that might be it, right? Paul did not know what the future held—whether he would be released or executed. Yet, instead of giving in to cynicism, he displayed Christ-like resiliency and humility. How?
He was transformed by the gospel. The resiliency and humility that Jesus displayed by giving his life for others forever changed Paul’s life and introduced him to a new way of being human. But there’s more. Paul was enlivened by a partnership in the gospel. He knew that he was not alone in his suffering. The Philippians had his back. They were his partners in the work of the gospel.
Our summer sermon series, “Partners in the Gospel,” is a series on the letter to the Philippians. May we experience deeper joy this summer as we nourish our togetherness in the gospel.