My Coming. Philippians 1:26. “That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again.” The news was out that Paul was coming to Philippi. If it had been to Corinth, anticipation would likely have been mixed with a sense of fear. Perhaps Euodias and Syntyche, who were in the assembly at Philippi, thought, “The last time he came, he really condemned us, not calling us by name but telling us we must conform to what he says, we must do things his way.” He simply meant he has the answers from God for the division between you, or there’s a price to pay.
Some preachers come, and you feel afraid of what he might say because they often have harsh, condemnatory words. He believes everyone must see things his way, or they need serious correction. I think it would be terrible if people said I am hard and uncaring. I hope some will come to a meeting, even if only to see that I care about all of them and their joy in faith. I know they live and work right here, and every day, people who know them watch, wanting to see if what they believe is real or just for show.
By God’s grace, I desire to bring some joy to the Lord’s people that can strengthen and uplift them in their faith. I want to provide teaching that makes the Christian life genuine and can bring holy joy and some real encouragement to those living in this hurting world. Whether I speak publicly or privately, may my words be full of grace, and may every saint of God leave with joy on their face.
How wonderful it is when saints rejoice with words from their lips as they recall who, how, what, and when the work began here. When we think about it, talk about it, and lift our voices in cheerful praise to God, we remember that God Himself started the work, which began right here. Rejoicing hearts turn back again, and faithful ones recall God's speaking with clear tones, and the word delivered through His servants challenged everyone. Our souls awaken, and our conscience begins to speak to us. Rejoicing occurs; mature believers pray and praise God as others trust in Christ.
The lost were found, the dead received new life, and those in darkness turned to the light. Guilty consciences found peace with God, and those who came to Christ began a new life. Our rejoicing was not in the pleasures of sin but in Christ, who loved us and died for us. Something new happened now that the Holy Spirit dwells within us. Some suffering occurred, and it was difficult when people walked away from the light of God’s Word. Families also rejected the light that shone like a new day. But even then, we rejoiced, because suffering teaches us to trust simply and confidently; we know that sin does not belong. We have new hope, and in this, our hearts rejoice. God gave us promises when we chose Him. This is the beginning of eternal life, which we live by faith because Earth is not our final home. We shall be changed and will be like Him when He comes for us.
We rejoice right now in many ways as we recognize God’s plans. He has given us joy suited to our lives in every place we visit. We rejoice with saints with whom we share our lives as we move forward. The day is coming when, with rejoicing, we will reflect on work well done. Rejoicing then with God’s dear ones seems to grow as we fellowship together. We rejoice with hearts overflowing with praise when lost souls find true peace. Rejoicing with a clear conscience increases as the blessed hope nears. Our joy is abundant when, with the saints, we share our life of faith in Christ.