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Philippians 3:1
The Apostle Paul gives instructions in Philippians 3:1a (NKJV) to “rejoice in the Lord.” He then declares in Philippians 3:1b, “For me to write the same things to you is not tedious, but for you it is safe.” Paul has previously given this same instruction to “rejoice” (Philippians 1:18, 2:18, 28) and is not being “tedious” (Philippians 3:1b) but instructs that it is “safe” for them to do so. This instruction for the Christians at the church in Philippi may seem a little odd, but Paul wants to give a pathway that leads to Christ rather than the false teachings that were present in Philippi at that time.
This is a command to “rejoice in the Lord” (Philippians 3:1a).
The instructions that the Apostle Paul has given to the Christians at the church in Philippi have at least 2 takeaways that we can utilize in our lives today: The first has already been mentioned, and that is to keep our focus in rejoicing on the things of the Lord and the kingdom of heaven. And (2) is the most important and must not be overlooked as if missing the forest for the trees. Paul instructs not to simply be rejoiceful in anything as simply to rejoice in all things, but that the rejoicing should be done “in the Lord” (Philippians 3:1a). As Jesus prepares His disciples for His crucifixion, He states in John 16:22, “therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you.”
Dear LORD,
There are many distractions, trials, and tribulations in this world, but please help us to always be rejoiceful in our Lord and Savior Jesus who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). In Jesus name I pray, amen.