Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:4-7

Joy is a central part of in the Christian life, as the Apostle Paul reminds us in Philippians 4. But what makes this passage even more remarkable is that Paul wrote these words while lying in prison, awaiting trial, with almost certain death awaiting him. Meanwhile, the Philippians were about to face times of uncertainty, danger, and persecution. Despite these harsh circumstances, Paul speaks of joy with confidence and conviction. How is this possible?

Paul teaches us that joy is not dependent on our external circumstances. True joy is found in the Lord, in the deep relationship we have with Jesus Christ.  This joy is not the same as fleeting happiness, which can be affected by the ups and downs of daily life. Instead, it is a steadfast, abiding sense of peace and contentment that comes from knowing God and trusting in God’s love and care for us.

Paul also encourages us to bring all our worries and concerns before God in prayer, and to do so with a heart full of gratitude. This is not always easy when we are feeling overwhelmed or anxious, but it is a powerful practice that shifts our focus away from our problems and back to the God who holds all things in His hands. And as we trust God with our worries, Paul promises that His peace will guard our hearts and minds. This is a peace that surpasses all understanding — a divine gift that protects us from fear and despair, allowing us to remain joyful no matter what life brings.

Remember that joy is not something we simply create on our own. It is a gift from God, cultivated through our relationship with Christ, prayer, and thanksgiving. No matter what we face, we can hold on to this joy, knowing that the Lord is near and that His peace will sustain us. Even as we face our own trials, we can find joy in the One who loves us, guides us, and gives us peace beyond measure.

In Christ,

The Rev. John G. Rights