A.W. Tozer famously said, “The Christian owes it to the world to be supernaturally joyful,” because joy is one of the most obvious fruits of a life dedicated to Jesus. The question is, do other people see Jesus in the way we act and live our lives? Or does our behavior say otherwise? The joy we receive from Christ isn’t only for us, it is meant to glorify God and point others to Jesus. Amazing things happen when we put love and joy together!

Unity

While in prison, Paul urged the Philippians to live in a manner worthy of the gospel and encouraged them to strive together with one mind and spirit for the gospel (Philippians 1:27-28). As citizens of heaven, we are called to unity. The church is not merely a club to relax in or a hospital for healing, it is God’s army, standing firm with one mission (Philippians 1:27). God’s Word constantly reminds us to be united because He knows it is in our nature to do the opposite. Many times, instead of promoting unity, we turn against one another, doing Satan’s work of division instead of the unifying work of Christ. Just like schools of fish swim closely together for protection against predators, we too must band closely together in unity to protect ourselves from Satan’s deadliest weapons – division and deception. We are stronger when we stand united in spirit and in purpose.

Humility

Living out love and joy leads to humility. Humility is not optional; God requires it of us (Micah 6:8). Through Paul’s reminder to the Philippians, we learn that true humility means to do nothing from selfishness, but to instead consider the needs of others as more important than our own needs (Philippians 2:3-4). Pride is the hallmark of Satan, but humility is the hallmark of Jesus. Though fully God, Jesus displayed the ultimate act of humility by taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of man, and dying on the cross for our sins (Philippians 2:5-8). When we practice genuine humility, we reflect selflessness, kindness, compassion, and generosity. Just as David showed undeserved kindness to Mephibosheth (2 Samuel 9:1, 6-7), Jesus calls us to extend God’s kindness to others.

God’s Glory

R.C. Sproul said, “We do not segment our lives giving some time to God, some to our business or schooling while keeping parts to ourselves. The idea is to live all our lives in the Presence of God, under the authority of God, and for the honor and glory of God. That is what the Christian life is all about.” Jesus humbled Himself, but God exalted Him, giving Him the name that is above every name (Philippians 2:9). One day, every knee will boy, and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord, all for the glory of God (Philippians 2:10-11). Until that day comes, our ultimate purpose on this earth is to glorify God through our lives. May we live out love and joy in pursuit of accomplishing that purpose.

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LAST WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE

Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I will hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; (Philippians 1:27)