TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Philippians 4:4
Read: Philippians 4:4-9
Listen: Philippians 4
TODAY’S MESSAGE
The Apostle Paul endured house arrest as an inmate in Rome for two years. He couldn’t go where he wanted or be with the people he chose. He stared at the same four walls day after day. The Romans restricted his every move. It was during this lengthy imprisonment that Paul encouraged the Philippians to “rejoice in the Lord always.” Paul knew what we focus on in the midst of unwanted situations shapes our behaviors and attitudes.
Many of us feel stuck today. We never expected to find ourselves under “house arrest” unable to go where we want or be with the people we desire. We face unwanted struggles with finances, food shortages or home situations we can’t escape. We too are waiting for it all to end.
Our focus amid frustration and fear matters. Paul urged his readers to rejoice and focus on “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Philippians 4:8).
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Begin (or continue) practicing the discipline of gratitude. In your journal or on a note on your mobile device, record three specific things you are grateful for. Pause to acknowledge those items as good gifts from your Heavenly Father who loves you.
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