Choosing Joy – Phil. 1:27-30

We Choose Joy in the Midst of Suffering by:

1. Maintaining a Joyful Mentality.

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters whenever you face trials of many kinds.”  James 1:2

2. Focusing on Eternity.

“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”  Romans 8:18      

“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.  So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”  II Corinthians 4: 17-18

3. Trusting God Unconditionally.

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”  Isaiah 26:3

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding in all of your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.”  Proverbs 3:5-6

 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”  Romans 15:13