Joy comes from being a part of something bigger than ourselves.
What we are a part of is a partnership.
What we are a part of is more important than the part we play.
There is One Who has taken the humblest part that we might have a part in the joy of the gospel.
These are the four points I made in Sunday's message. I offer them here by way of review. Based on Philippians 1:12-18, they capture an outlook on life that sets direction and purpose for all we do. If you're interested go to www.trinityfel.org to listen to the message in full.
Whoever you are and whatever church you are a part of, my simple word to you today is this: do not shrink life down to your own little world. God is up to something huge, and He invites you to share the joy of being a part of it. Seek counsel from pastor, spouse, and members of your local church, to find out what part that might be.
Then go for the joy!
Thanks for the reminder and review from last Sunday.
ReplyDeleteIt's a pitiful thing to watch someone "shrink life down" to their "own little world." (And it's not too pretty when I find myself tending in that direction either.)
Of course, Jesus did not suffer and die to make me comfortable and prosperous, and help me establish my own little paradise here on earth for 70 years!
Your message on Sunday counters this all to popular teahing that somehow God exists to serve me, rather than me serving Him.
Yes it's pitiful and sad when we shrink it all down. Around here we find ourselves saying more and more; "It's not about me" and meaning that in pretty radical terms. A governing principle for life is: "What is in the best interest of the kingdom of God in home and church?" It doesn't matter what role or reputation or other personal desire we may have that may have to be sacrificed. It simply is not about me.
ReplyDeleteAnd the more we live this-paradoxically--the more filled with joy we become!