Paul’s joyful attitude

The meaning of the word joy is cheerfulness and sincere delight. Joy is an emotion evoked by the feeling of well-being and happiness. The spiritual joy experienced by the disciple of Christ is elevated to a level above happiness. The scriptures often refer to "rejoicing" as an expression of joy and instruct the faithful to rejoice. The apostle Paul repeatedly reminded the Philippians to maintain an attitude of rejoicing in the Lord. "Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord….Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice" (Phil. 3:1; 4:4).

The scriptures have provided a beautiful example of a joyful attitude in the character of Paul the apostle. Though he was persecuted and suffered at the hands of unbelieving, preaching the truth and nurturing fellow younger brethren brought him great joy and strength. Paul says, "I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ." Phil. 3:8. Worldly possessions become worthless when compared to the opportunity and privilege of being called by the Almighty God. Paul trusted in God to be the supplier of all his needs. (James 1:17)

Paul remained without complaint, as we learn from 2 Corinthians 7:4 "Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation” even though we learn from the very next verse (5) that he had suffered greatly. In these verses, Paul is revealing a perfect example of suffering combined with a joyful attitude.

So much to learn!!!