Joy In The Journey - Having Christ

 “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!” — Philippians 4:4

There are many things we encounter in life that, if we don’t have our focus on the Lord will result in robbing us of our joy.  When Paul penned the passage above, he was a prisoner in a Roman jail, ultimately living out his last days.  Days of facing threats and uncertainty, Paul wrote that, with no exceptions, we are to rejoice in every circumstance we face in this life.

If anyone could have been “down” on life, it would have been Paul.  Looking back at the Scriptures, we know he faced much persecution and physical abuse.  And yet this letter is surprisingly full of hope and gladness. Paul’s words remind us that joy is not just a fleeting feeling—it’s a way of life for those who walk with Christ. 

The reality is that this life can be challenging and even heavy at times. We all carry burdens, deal with trials, and sometimes we feel overwhelmed by the weight of it all. But Scripture gives us a very special word: joy. Not the kind that fades with changing circumstances, but the joy that stands firm—provided by and anchored in the person of Jesus Christ.

When Paul wrote that we are to rejoice in all circumstances, he is writing from personal experience and conviction. The joy of which Paul writes does not ignore pain and hardship; it looks pain and hardship in the face and declares that our God is still good.

So how was it that Paul was able to hold on to his joy?

“I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” — Philippians 3:8

Paul knew that the source of his joy was because of his personal relationship with the Lord Jesus.  He knew that everything he had gained or lost in this life – all of it – paled in comparison to knowing Jesus Christ.

Paul also knew that joy begins not in what we do but in who we know. He knew that the Christian life is not about religion, but about relationship.  That is why he was able to declare that all he had accomplished was worthless compared to the joy of knowing Jesus. The kind of joy that Paul is writing about can only be available through a personal relationship with Jesus.  No exceptions.

While my cancer and related challenges could rob me of my joy, these words from Paul remind me that the source of my joy is in knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. 

Although the ongoing chemo treatments and recent challenges with blood pressure and blood sugar continue to negatively impact my body, the words Paul wrote to the Philippian believers are a great source of comfort and encouragement.

“I thank my God every time I remember you… because of your partnership in the gospel.” — Philippians 1:3–5

Paul’s joy was not a solo experience. It was enriched by his relationship with the Philippian believers. Christian community matters. When we walk alongside others in faith—praying, serving, and encouraging one another—our joy multiplies.  The church is not just a place to attend; it’s a physical family to belong to.

While my compromised immune system prohibits me from in-person attendance with my church family, that does not mean I am isolated from the church – locally as well as globally.  One of the most encouraging and important aspects of my current situation is knowing that I am loved, prayed for and supported even though I’m not physically present.

“Do nothing from selfish ambition… but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” — Philippians 2:3

Reflecting on this Easter season, I have been reminded that Jesus showed us the ultimate example of humility, laying aside His glory to serve and save us. Paul calls us to follow that example. And when we do follow that example, there is often a deep sense of joy that we experience when we set aside our selfish notion to live for ourselves and instead put our efforts into living for others. In a world chasing self-promotion, true joy is found in Christ-like humility.

“Do not be anxious about anything… and the peace of God… will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:6–7

I’ve heard it said that worry is a joy-thief. But Paul gives us the antidote: prayer. Giving our fears to Lord, He replaces them with His shield of peace—the peace that guards our hearts and minds. As the Lord’s peace surrounds us, joy takes root and remains strong.

Even in hardship, as we turn to the Lord He fills our hearts with the same joy of which Paul wrote. He gives the peace that surpasses all understanding.  And He helps us to serve others in humility, to walk in community, and to rest in the truth of His presence.  May our lives shine with a joy so compelling that others may be drawn to Him – the great hope we have in this life.