Relentless JoySample

In Philippians chapter one, we learn that Paul is joyful because of his confidence in God to finish the good work he started with the Philippian church. Why would this bring Paul joy? Because if God is in control, then the limits placed on Paul by his imprisonment would not stop his work at the Church of Philippi. This was a work that God started, and a work that God would also complete. What freedom and joy may we experience when we realize that, while the work is up to us, the results are up to God? When we realize it is the power of God that starts and ends a matter, we are released of the stress, anxiety, and pressure of trying to do what only God can do. All we then need to do is be obedient and let God do His part. 1 Corinthians 3:7 confirms this truth:

“So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives growth.” (1 Corinthians 3:7 ESV)

We rob ourselves of joy when we don’t believe God will finish what He’s started in our lives. We rob ourselves of peace when we feel everything is up to us. Peace and joy belong to those who trust that God will do it, no matter how it looks.

Paul could have been stressed. He could have easily been worried that all the work he put into establishing this church would have been in vain because he was away, confined, restrained, and unable to control the circumstances within his own might. But you’ll find no anxiety in his words. You only find joy because he knows if God established this church, surely He will sustain it.

So many times we place unnecessary demands, pressure, and obligations on ourselves. We tell ourselves what we need and have to do. We run around frantically trying to keep all the pieces of our lives together with the pressure on our shoulders to ensure everything doesn’t fall apart.

This pressure does not come from God. Free yourself with this truth: Do your best, and let God do the rest. Do your part, but don’t forget God is faithful to do His. Paul didn’t just think this was true and he didn’t simply hope this was true. He was sure of it. Are you?