“A Joy-Filled Heart” (2)

Philippians 2:12-18

Good morning, Church. Today, I want to talk about a specific word that is central to our Christian walk: The word is Joy, now I know we have seen the word happy in some new translation but its not one of the fruits of the spirit and I ran across this definition of happy vs. Joy.

Happiness is typically a more fleeting emotion, often sparked by a particular moment or event that brings a sense of excitement or exhilaration. Joy, on the other hand, is a more long-lasting state of being, characterized by contentment and satisfaction with life overall.

In the Old Testament, joy is closely related to victory over one’s enemies. For example, in 1 Sam 18:6 when David returned from killing the Philistine, he was met with joy and dancing. It is also associated with religious acts and feasts, including sacrifices in Psa 27:6 and the Feast of Unleavened Bread (2 Chr 30; Ezra 6).

“Joy” also occurs frequently in songs of praise, called the book of Psalms, the most memorable is Psalms 30:5 “ Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning” (1 Chr 16; Pss 20; 33; 47). The prophets speak of joy, both its being taken away on account of exile (Ezek 24:25; Joel 1:12) and of the joy that will return when the people are restored (Isa 35:10; Jer 31:13). In the New Testament, “joy” is still used for victory, as shown by the disciples returning with joy since even the evil spirits listened to them (Luke 10:17). However, the victory focuses more on salvation (Luke 15:7)—7” I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine.”

The presence of Christ, the bridegroom, gives reason for joy (John 3:29). In the New Testament letters, joy is a desired attribute of Christians. Paul expressed frequently the joy he had regarding the salvation of those he was writing to and prayed that they might be full of joy. Joy is a key characteristic of the Kingdom of God and can help Christians experience salvation. Luke helps us define that joy is more a state of being than an emotion; One of the fruits of the spirit (Gal 5:22–23). Having joy is part of the experience of being a Christian. check out the order in Galatians of the fruits of the spirit.

According to 1 Peter 1:6-9, joy is a feeling that comes from believing in Christ and can help Christians receive salvation.

1 Peter 1:6–9 NKJV

6 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, 8 whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, 9 receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.

True, lasting joy doesn’t depend on our circumstances but on our relationship with Christ.

So I have given you time to locate our text this morning as we direct our attention to Philippians 2:12-18, where the Apostle Paul gives us profound insights into living with a joy-filled heart.

Philippians 2:12–13 NKJV

12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; 13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.

Work Out Your Salvation with Fear and Trembling

“Therefore” If you go back to verse 1 of this chapter he begins with this same word. It ties together his conflict and their conflict. It’s what makes them unified. Paul begins by exhorting us to "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." This phrase might sound daunting, but it is a call to live out the implications of our salvation in every aspect of our lives. We may place a nervous burden on ourselves when we see words like workout, salvation, fear, and trembling. But it states to work out, not work for it. It’s paid for remember it’s not our work.

The meaning workout: the Greek term speaks of the presence and deliverance of the Philippians. The word translated out is used by the first-century author Strabo, who speaks of digging gold out of gold mines. Thus salvation can be compared to a huge gold mind or gift that needs to be unwrapped or dug up in order to fully use its potential. Definition of Salvation in this text comes from two verses in the bible Ephesians 2:8-9 and Galatians 5:1

Ephesians 2:8–9 (NKJV)

8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast.

Galatians 5:1 (NKJV)

1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.

So I came up with a definition that says “ Salvation is God’s unmerited favor given to those who believe. It keeps rescuing us from our Old-Self”

Dave McCracken is an underwater mining specialist and this is what he said about looking for gold “I always like to start by discussing the most important and fundamental ingredient in successful gold mining. That basic ingredient is you, yourself!

You are the one who makes decisions for yourself. You decided to get into mining in the first place. You also make the decisions on how you are going to approach gold mining, and how you are going to deal with all of the problems and the barriers to your success. This is all up to you. Our Pot of Gold a gift that keeps giving the more we dig for it. Regardless of suggestions or input you receive from others, you make the final decisions on what you are going to do-no matter what Anyone says, why because its yours.

It will take us as far as we want it to go. and here is the amazing thing. “therefore” says that your joy becomes my joy. Oakdale’s Joy, becomes Forest parks joy. Why because we are united in christ Jesus.

I believe this Salvation is us digging for the fruits of the spirit. a few weeks ago we spoke about above all being a citizen of Heaven which talks about rising about and we found out in I corinthians that Love is the greatest thing you can have.

- **Personal Responsibility:** Working out our salvation means actively pursuing a life that reflects our faith. It’s not about earning salvation, which is a gift from God, but about responding to that gift with a life of obedience and reverence. Its not a cookie cutter or one size fits all. Don’t look to your neighbor and wonder what you are doing wrong. It’s personal.

- **Divine Enablement:** Paul reassures us that "it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose." Our efforts are undergirded by God's power. We are not alone in this journey; God is at work within us, shaping our desires and empowering our actions. Thank God for allowing His people to be used for His good pleasure

Philippians 2:14–15 NKJV

14 Do all things without complaining and disputing, 15 that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world,

2. Do Everything Without Grumbling or Arguing

A joy-filled heart transforms our attitude towards life's challenges. Paul instructs us to "do everything without grumbling or arguing." This is not just a call to avoid complaining but an invitation to adopt a spirit of gratitude and unity.

- **Attitude of Gratitude:** Joy thrives in an environment of thankfulness. By eliminating grumbling, we create space for joy to flourish. Remembering God's faithfulness helps us maintain a positive perspective even in difficult times.

- **Shines bright like a diamond:** Paul likens us to stars shining in the sky. Our joy and unity make us stand out in a world often characterized by division and discontent. When we live joyfully and harmoniously, we reflect God's light to those around us.

When you can forget about yourself and freely think of others first, there is nothing to grumble about.

My definition of complaining is complaining about something that is broken because if it was a joy-filled spirit would fix it.

Now it's not complaining when there is something wrong. You get your food at the restaurant and it's cold. Telling the waiter is not complaining, that’s helping to fix a problem before it gets worse. Running into someone in the church who helps you handle your spirit before you run into a new convert and they are gone.

What that means is, that I don’t have to argue for my rights, I can be wrong and let it go. I can go last and take the smallest piece, take the farthest parking spot, and enjoy it all. I can serve not to feel good about myself but for them. If you can truly feel good when someone else gets good, your heart will be joyful every time. ‘ it's more blessed to give than to receive’

Look how he puts it in verse 15. You are, he says, to shine like lights in the world, in the middle of a twisted and depraved generation. You are to be the beacon of hope they see the sign of God’s beauty in a world that had all but defaced it. When he speaks of them shining like lights he is quoting a passage from the book of Daniel (12.2-3), And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, Some to everlasting life, Some to shame and everlasting contempt. 3 Those who are wise shall shine Like the brightness of the firmament, And those who turn many to righteousness Like the stars forever and ever

Daniel speaks of ‘the wise’ – by which they meant Israelites skilled in knowing and applying God’s law, not least in a time of persecution – shining in that way to the world around.

In a sense, then, what Paul is saying is not just that the Philippians are to be a sign of light and beauty in a world of darkness and ugliness. They are to be a sign of God’s new life in a world that only knows the way to death.

Just think about it, the most miserable people you will encounter, talk about themselves, think about themselves, and grumble and argue constantly about others

The most joyful people you will find forget themselves and serve. If we could live that way, it would revolutionize marriages friendships, siblings, and churches.

Philippians 2:16-18(NKJV)

16 holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.

**3. Holding Firmly to the Word of Life (v. 16):**

To maintain a joy-filled heart, we must "hold firmly to the word of life." The Scriptures are our source of strength and encouragement. (Example a kid who has a toy or blanket and you try to remove it from there hands)

- **Anchored in Truth:** Regular engagement with God’s Word anchors us in truth. It equips us to navigate life's challenges with wisdom and confidence, keeping our hearts aligned with God’s will.

- **Hope and Assurance:** The promises found in the Bible fuel our hope. When we face trials, we can hold onto the assurance of God’s love and sovereignty, which sustains our joy.

Philippians 2:17–18 (NKJV)

17 Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. 18 For the same reason you also be glad and rejoice with me.

**4. Rejoicing Even in Sacrifice (v. 17-18):**

Paul speaks of being "poured out like a drink offering" and yet rejoicing. He invites the Philippians to share in his joy, even in the face of suffering.

- **Joy in Service:** True joy often involves sacrifice. Serving others and putting their needs above our own can be challenging, but it leads to deeper fulfillment and joy. Paul’s example teaches us that joy is found in giving of ourselves for the sake of others.

- **Mutual Joy:** Paul’s joy is not solitary; it is communal. He encourages the Philippians to be glad and rejoice with him. Our joy is amplified when shared within the community of believers.

 4   The most fruitful and the most joy-filled Christians are the most pruned Christians.

Bruce Wilkinson

**Conclusion:**

A joy-filled heart is marked by diligent pursuit of godliness, gratitude, unity, grounding in God’s Word, and sacrificial service. As we embrace these principles, we reflect the light of Christ and experience the profound joy that comes from living in accordance with God’s purposes.

Let us commit today to cultivate a joy-filled heart, knowing that it is God who works in us to will and to act according to His good purpose. May our lives, like Paul’s, be a testament to the transformative power of Christ’s joy.