September 13th, 2026

“Strength from Joy”

Part 1

Paul told the Philippians that he was convinced he was to remain and stand  by  them  to promote their progress and joy in believing. That is a powerful statement! And because of his promoting their progress, they were not for one moment to be frightened or intimidated in anything by their opponents and adversaries. When joy is promoted, strength comes to stand and withstand all impending destruction.

All this is accomplished by our being in Christ Jesus and our participation with the Holy Spirit. Through the work of the Spirit, there was an incentive of love and a depth of affection and compassionate sympathy. This caused the Philippians to stand shoulder to shoulder against their enemy.  Paul said that his joy would be complete if they would live in harmony and be of the same mind and purpose. And if they did, then they would have the same love and live in full accord with one harmonious mind and intention.  This isn’t a natural inclination for the human being, and it can only be achieved as life is lived in Christ Jesus.

Paul was actually saying that their victory over an evil enemy would give them the ability to live in the power of the love of God. And through that love, the Philippians would without doubt live in the power of agreement through the harmony of the having the same purpose of mind and heart.