Finally, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you. ~Philippians 3:1 (ESV)
This single verse, about halfway through Paul’s letter, gives a strong reminder of Paul’s purpose in writing to the church. He wanted them to experience the great joy of God through Christ in all things. He wanted them to join him in looking beyond the ups and downs, troubles and pleasures of each day and set their gaze firmly upon the solid rock of joy: Jesus.
So, he said, “To write the same things to you is no trouble to me.” Repetition is how we learn and grow. Hearing and doing the same things again and again is how we develop lifelong habits, either bad or good. In this case, Paul’s reminder was good. He knew the outcome of it would be greater attitudes of joy on a daily basis. Therefore, he had no qualms about reminding the church over and over of joy in Christ.
Paul also said, “…and is safe for you.” We live in a world of distractions, and that hasn’t changed in 2000 years. The forms of distraction shift with time, but the fact remains that we face plenty that tries to take our eyes off of Jesus. A regular reminder fights against these distractions. We need to be reminded that Jesus is the greater Savior-King, answering our deepest needs due to our sin.
Being reminded of the work of Jesus to save us and being reminded of the eternal joy Jesus brings us through salvation serve as a strong anchor of the soul. Let yourself hear and heed the reminder to rejoice in the Lord.
New posts from this devotional series in Philippians will run most Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
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