Ingredients for real joy…

I. Rejoice - Philippians 4:4, 4:1

A. Paul wanted the Philippians to take joy in the Lord; He is our source for joy! - Philippians 3:20-21

B. Proper focus on God puts everything else in right perspective - Matthew 14:28-30

II. Gentleness - Philippians 4:5

A. Gentleness = ep-ee-i-kace = suitable, equitable, fair, appropriate, moderation; graciousness. An uprightness of character; living before God as opposed to living before men.

B. God is our source, our motivation and our accountability - Romans 14:12

III. Peace - Philippians 4:6-9

A. Peace comes through prayer - v. 6, Colossians 3:15-17

B. Peace will help guard our hearts - v. 7, 1 Corinthians 1:26-27

C. Peace will help guard our minds - v. 7-8, 2 Corinthians 10:4-5

1. Whatever is True - John 8:44-45, 1 John 5:6

2. Whatever is Noble (honest) & Just - Philippians 4:5

3. Whatever is Pure, Lovely & of Good Report - Ephesians 5:8-12

4. Whatever posses Virtue and Praise - Psalm 119:165

D. Put your faith into action - v. 9, James 1:22, 2:18