Pursuing Joy: Attitudes Rooted in Christ's Example

Summary

In our journey through the series "Pursuing Joy," we delve into the Apostle Paul's letter to the Philippians, written from a Roman prison. Despite his dire circumstances, Paul exemplifies a profound joy that transcends his situation. This joy is not circumstantial but rooted in a deep relationship with Christ. Today, we explore how to pursue joy in our attitudes, drawing from Philippians 2:1-11. Attitude, often misunderstood, is a reflection of our inner state and can be a source of joy when aligned with Christ's example.

Paul encourages us to build our lives on four foundational truths: encouragement in Christ, comfort from His love, fellowship with the Spirit, and love for others. These foundations help us break through discouragement and find a deeper encouragement that is not dependent on our circumstances. Like David in 1 Samuel 30, who strengthened himself in the Lord during a time of great distress, we too can find strength and joy in our connection with Jesus.

To cultivate a joyful attitude, we must make intentional choices. Paul advises against selfish ambition and vain conceit, urging us to consider others more important than ourselves. This selfless approach is akin to a rudder guiding our relationships, steering us towards humility and love. The story of the Chinese farmer who served his neighbor exemplifies this principle, showing how humility and service can lead others to Christ.

Finally, we are called to imitate Christ, our ultimate example. Jesus laid down His rights, served others, and was obedient to the Father, even unto death. His exaltation came through humility, teaching us that the way up in God's kingdom is down. As we follow His example, we find joy in serving and loving others, knowing that our obedience is an expression of our love for God.

Key Takeaways:

- Foundations of Joy: Building our lives on the encouragement in Christ, comfort from His love, fellowship with the Spirit, and love for others provides a solid foundation for joy. These elements help us break through discouragement and find a deeper encouragement that is not dependent on circumstances. [10:53]

- Choosing Joyful Attitudes: Joyful attitudes are cultivated through intentional choices. By rejecting selfish ambition and vain conceit, and prioritizing the interests of others, we align our attitudes with Christ's example. This selflessness acts as a rudder, guiding our relationships towards humility and love. [16:24]

- Imitating Christ: Jesus is our ultimate example of a joyful attitude. He laid down His rights, served others, and was obedient to the Father. His exaltation through humility teaches us that the way up in God's kingdom is down. By following His example, we find joy in serving and loving others. [22:57]

- The Power of Encouragement: Like David in 1 Samuel 30, who strengthened himself in the Lord, we too can find strength and joy in our connection with Jesus. This deeper encouragement helps us overcome discouragement and maintain a joyful attitude, regardless of our circumstances. [12:27]

- Joy in Obedience: Obedience to God is an expression of our love for Him. By being faithful in small things, we build a strength of obedience that prepares us for greater challenges. This obedience, rooted in love, leads to joy and fulfillment in our walk with Christ. [27:02]

Youtube Chapters:

- [0:00] - Welcome
- [01:34] - Prayer for Relationships
- [02:25] - Context of Philippians
- [03:09] - Joy in Difficult Circumstances
- [03:55] - Understanding Attitude
- [05:18] - Introduction to Philippians 2
- [06:08] - The Attitude of Christ
- [07:43] - The Name Above All Names
- [08:35] - Joy as a Fruit of the Spirit
- [09:18] - Attitude Adjustment
- [10:53] - Foundations of Joy
- [12:27] - Encouragement in the Lord
- [16:24] - Making Right Attitude Choices
- [22:57] - Imitating Christ's Example
- [27:02] - Joy in Obedience

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: Pursuing Joy in Our Attitudes

Bible Reading:
- Philippians 2:1-11
- 1 Samuel 30:6
- Romans 8:27-29

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Observation Questions:

1. What are the four foundational truths Paul encourages us to build our lives on according to Philippians 2:1-11? [10:53]

2. How does Paul describe the attitude we should have, as exemplified by Christ in Philippians 2:5-8? [06:08]

3. In the story of David from 1 Samuel 30, what action did David take to find encouragement during his distress? [12:27]

4. How does Paul suggest we should treat others in Philippians 2:3-4, and what metaphor is used to describe this approach? [16:24]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How do the foundational truths mentioned in Philippians 2:1-11 help believers find joy that is not dependent on circumstances? [10:53]

2. What does it mean to have the same attitude as Christ Jesus, and how can this attitude influence our daily interactions? [06:08]

3. How does the story of David in 1 Samuel 30 illustrate the concept of finding strength in the Lord, and how can this be applied to modern-day challenges? [12:27]

4. What are the implications of considering others more important than ourselves, as Paul advises in Philippians 2:3-4, in the context of community and relationships? [16:24]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a recent situation where your attitude was challenged. How can you apply the example of Christ's humility to that situation? [06:08]

2. Identify a relationship in your life where you can practice considering the other person more important than yourself. What specific actions can you take this week to demonstrate this? [16:24]

3. When you face discouragement, how can you strengthen yourself in the Lord as David did? What practical steps can you take to shift your focus from your circumstances to God's promises? [12:27]

4. Think about a time when you acted out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. How can you choose a different path next time, focusing on the interests of others? [18:16]

5. How can you cultivate a deeper fellowship with the Holy Spirit in your daily life, and what impact might this have on your attitude and joy? [15:04]

6. Reflect on a time when you felt God's love and comfort. How can you remind yourself of this love during times of stress or anxiety? [13:25]

7. Consider the concept of joy in obedience. What small act of obedience can you commit to this week, and how might it lead to greater joy in your walk with Christ? [27:02]

Devotional

Day 1: Foundations of Joy in Christ
Building our lives on the encouragement in Christ, comfort from His love, fellowship with the Spirit, and love for others provides a solid foundation for joy. These elements help us break through discouragement and find a deeper encouragement that is not dependent on circumstances. The Apostle Paul, writing from a Roman prison, exemplifies this joy that transcends his dire situation. His joy is deeply rooted in his relationship with Christ, not in his external circumstances. By focusing on these foundational truths, we can cultivate a joy that is resilient and enduring. [10:53]

"Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving." (Colossians 2:6-7, ESV)

Reflection: What are the specific ways you can build your life on the encouragement in Christ and comfort from His love today?

Day 2: Choosing Joyful Attitudes
Joyful attitudes are cultivated through intentional choices. By rejecting selfish ambition and vain conceit, and prioritizing the interests of others, we align our attitudes with Christ's example. This selflessness acts as a rudder, guiding our relationships towards humility and love. The story of the Chinese farmer who served his neighbor illustrates how humility and service can lead others to Christ. By making these intentional choices, we can steer our lives towards a more joyful and fulfilling path. [16:24]

"Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others." (Philippians 2:3-4, ESV)

Reflection: Identify one relationship where you can practice selflessness today. How can you prioritize the interests of the other person?

Day 3: Imitating Christ's Humility
Jesus is our ultimate example of a joyful attitude. He laid down His rights, served others, and was obedient to the Father, even unto death. His exaltation through humility teaches us that the way up in God's kingdom is down. By following His example, we find joy in serving and loving others. This path of humility and service is not only a reflection of Christ's character but also a source of profound joy and fulfillment in our lives. [22:57]

"Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men." (Philippians 2:5-7, ESV)

Reflection: In what specific ways can you imitate Christ's humility in your daily interactions this week?

Day 4: The Power of Encouragement in the Lord
Like David in 1 Samuel 30, who strengthened himself in the Lord during a time of great distress, we too can find strength and joy in our connection with Jesus. This deeper encouragement helps us overcome discouragement and maintain a joyful attitude, regardless of our circumstances. By drawing near to God and relying on His strength, we can navigate life's challenges with a resilient and joyful spirit. [12:27]

"But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God." (1 Samuel 30:6b, ESV)

Reflection: When you face discouragement, what practical steps can you take to strengthen yourself in the Lord today?

Day 5: Joy in Obedience to God
Obedience to God is an expression of our love for Him. By being faithful in small things, we build a strength of obedience that prepares us for greater challenges. This obedience, rooted in love, leads to joy and fulfillment in our walk with Christ. As we follow His commands and align our lives with His will, we experience the joy that comes from living in harmony with God's purposes. [27:02]

"And Samuel said, 'Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams.'" (1 Samuel 15:22, ESV)

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you can practice obedience to God today, and how might this lead to greater joy?

Quotes

1) "So we're talking about having an attitude that is pursuing joy, a joyful attitude. Joy is a happiness of the soul. And as we saw last week, and as we see from Paul, it's not produced by circumstances. It's not produced by circumstances. Feelings, but it's produced by the Holy Spirit. Joy is a fruit of the Spirit. And the truth of the Gospel. Joy is an attitude of the heart and a byproduct of faith. So for me, as I've been going through this all week, I've been getting a little bit of an attitude adjustment. You've heard that word before. Hey, you need an attitude adjustment. Maybe that's you. Maybe you're not, your attitude is down or negative on something in your life. Be open to what the Holy Spirit wants to do through the Scriptures, through Him opening our minds and our hearts to have this attitude in us that is in Christ Jesus." [08:35] (62 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2) "How do we pursue joy in our attitudes? I think there's three things that from the passage I read that we can do to pursue joy always and have joy, a joyful disposition. The first is start with the right foundations. Start with the right foundations. He says, therefore, if there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in Spirit, intent on purpose. I think what he's trying to say is there's four things, four foundations. There's four original truths I need to build my life on. And the first is finding encouragement from being connected to Jesus. You are connected to the Creator and Sustainer of all things. You're in fellowship with the Father, Son, and Spirit. What a beautiful thing." [09:59] (66 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3) "Have you ever noticed it's hard to be joyful when you're discouraged? Discouraged people are rarely joyful people. How do we break through discouragement? And find that encouragement. I think we need to find a deeper encouragement, a deeper encouragement that does not depend just upon our circumstances. It made me think of 1 Samuel 30. David is, in his manner, out at war against the enemies of Israel. And David does this huge military blunder. And they leave their wives and their children alone. And David says, I'm not going to do this. To the other enemies of Israel. So while they're fighting this war at Ziklag, the other enemies of Israel come and take and kidnap all their wives, all their children. And his men were mad and discouraged. And they were mad at him to the point that they were thinking about picking up stones and killing David and stoning him to death. David was bummed. He was discouraged. He felt guilty and shame. And 1 Samuel 30 verse 6 says, David encouraged himself or strengthened himself in the Lord. He strengthened himself in the Lord. He was able to pick himself up through his knowing that Yahweh loved him and that he was going to get him through this. Sometimes we need that deeper encouragement. We need to get our eyes off what's discouraging us and get our eyes on the one who encourages us, that we are connected to Jesus." [11:42] (101 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4) "Then another foundation to have a joyful attitude is fellowship with the Holy Spirit. I say this often. We don't need to ask God to be with us. He is with you 24-7. You are the temple of the Holy Spirit. He resides in you. You don't need more of him. He needs me to recognize his presence. So when you pray, just say, Holy Spirit, thank you that you're with me. Help me to recognize. Help me to recognize your presence. Help me to recognize that fellowship and that guidance that I have from you. Then I think Paul tells us here to have joy in our attitude is to reciprocate love to others. You receive joy when you show love to others. We actually benefit from it ourselves, the joy of loving others." [14:22] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5) "Second thing to have a joyful attitude is make the right attitude choices. There are choices Paul tells us in verses 3 and 4 about making the right attitude choices. So we start with the right foundations and then we make the right attitude choices. Do nothing from selfish or empty conceit. But with humility, consider one another as more important than yourselves. Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. What powerful relationship rudder. You know, a rudder on a boat guides where the boat's going to go. I think that verses 3 and 4 are the rudder for our relationships where we're not selfish. We're not, we have humility towards one another. We're looking out for one another. John Maxwell, he said, people hear your words, but they feel your attitude. They hear your words, but they feel your attitude." [15:04] (67 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6) "And then lastly, we get to the meat of this passage to have a joyful attitude is to imitate the right example, imitate the right example. I'm not going to read the whole passage again, but he says, have this attitude in you that was in Christ Jesus, who humbled himself and came to this earth in the form of a man. And that he humbled himself to the point of death. And then God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above all names. At the name of Jesus, every knee will bow, every tongue will confess that he is Lord to the glory of God, the father. It's interesting in the Greek, the word confess means everyone will give him praise and even allegiance. That's what that Paul says that in Romans, every knee will pledge allegiance to Jesus. What does that mean to imitate the Lord? Because the Lord is first and foremost, he's our savior. He's our Lord, but he's also our rabbi. He is our teacher. We learn how to live life from him. We follow our rabbi." [21:32] (76 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7) "What did Jesus do that we can learn from? I wrote down four simple things. The first thing Jesus did is he laid down his rights, right? He let go of what was due him. He let go of what was due him. He's the King of kings, the Lord of lords, the creator and sustainer of all things. And when he came into this world, most people didn't even notice him. Most rejected him because he didn't come the way they thought he was supposed to come as some military general and all of that. But Jesus came to lay down his life, yet he's the King of kings, Lord of lords, worthy of all praise from all humanity. And yet he didn't demand it. He didn't go around going, don't you know who I am? Don't you know who I am? I'm the King of kings. I created you. Bow down to me. That's not our God. That's not how Jesus... That's not who Jesus is." [22:57] (58 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8) "And then Jesus was obedient to his father. He was obedient in everything that he did to the father. And it was sacrificial obedience. I don't know, a week or two ago on a Monday on our day off, Janelle and I might have been on a golf course. And we found this little yardage thing. Sometimes people have a GPS watch. This was like a little thing you clip onto your card or keep in your pocket. And it lets you know how far your ball is from the hole on the green. Very, very handy little thing because then you can know what club to use. And so we used it the whole round. I was like, I like this And there was... There's this tug of war going on inside of me that I knew I needed to turn it into the clubhouse because somebody paid good money for it. And they probably were hopefully going to come and check, hey, did this get turned in or not? Did somebody find this? And I was like, but I really want to keep this. I really want this. And so we actually had to go in the clubhouse for something. I forgot about it and it was in my pocket. And we almost left because we were done. And if we would have left, I probably would have kept it. I reached down and felt it in my pocket. I know what I need to do. I walked in and I told the clubhouse guy, I said, we found this on whatever hole it was. And hopefully somebody will come back and he goes, that's really cool that you did that. And I was thinking, I didn't do that for you, but thank you. I want to be obedient to my father. And when I give you personal examples of this, it's part of my role as a pastor teacher is to, you know, so that you have real life examples. Because it's in the little things. When we're obedient in small things, when the tougher things come, we will have built up a strength of obedience that it becomes easier and easier rather than just that slippery slope of disobedience. And when Jesus tells us to obey his commands, it's out of love. He knows what's best for each one of us. The father is a good father. And he says, do this, don't do that. It's for our good. It's not for our, to throw a drag. Boy, do I wish I would have known that in my teen years and in my early 20s that God was looking out for my best. Anybody with me on that? I really messed up those teenage early 20 years. But I've been spending the rest of my life realizing God is love. And when he says do this or don't do that, it's because he cares for us. He cares for us as a good father." [24:50] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9) "And then through the example of Jesus, he was exalted. He was exalted. Jesus in Luke 14 11, he says, those who exalt themselves will be humbled, but those who humble themselves will be exalted. The way up in the kingdom of Jesus is down. The way up is down. It's an upside down kingdom. What sustained Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane when he was asking for forgiveness? agonizing, knowing what was about to happen to him. What sustained him on the cross? The writer of Hebrews says, for the joy set before him, he endured the cross. For the joy set before him, he endured the cross. What was the joy? The joy was you. Because we see in Scripture that he was the lamb slain before the foundation of the world. God had a plan for the mess we were going to make in the Son of God, the Word of God, becoming flesh and coming into this world and living a life where he was mostly rejected. And then humanity put him on a cross, and he submitted himself to death. But in the plan of God was to rise from the dead and to reverse the curse, to reverse the fall of Adam. That was the joy set before him. So in the agony that he experienced, he was thinking about, you and I. He was thinking about you on the cross. Don't ever forget that. Don't ever forget that." [27:47] (103 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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Transcript

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