The Path to Peace and Joy

The Christian's Joy
"The Path to Peace and Joy"
Phil. 4:4-7

The Commands (vv.4-6)

1 Pet. 4:13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.

An Average Person's Anxiety Is Focused On…

40%—things that will never happen
30%—things about the past that can't be changed
12%—things about criticism by others, mostly untrue
10%—about health, which gets worse with stress and worry
8%—about real problems that will be faced.

Reasons for Joy- Not Worry (Matt. 6:25-34)

God's Priority and Provision (6:25-30)

Psa. 34:10, The young lions suffer want and hunger; but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing. 104:28, When you give it to them, they gather it up; when you open your hand, they are filled with good things. God will provide needs for His children.

Psa. 127:2 It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep.

God's Promises (Ro. 8:28)

God's Purposes (Ro. 5:3-4)

Ja. 1:2-3 2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.

The Comfort (v.7)