Philippians (Bible in 90 Days)

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Philippians is the perfect book to make the distinction between happiness and joy. Happiness is this elusive idea that we spend our lifetime chasing this perfect moment. But joy runs deeper. Joy is a strong, deep assurance of God’s love. It is often quiet and in the background, but it is active when everything else seems lost. Happiness depends on happenings, but joy depends on Christ.

“Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)

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Paul writes the Philippians as a thank you for a gift they send him. He writes this joyful encouragement from prison. No matter what the circumstances are, Paul has learned to be content knowing Christ and trusting in his plan.

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Do not focus your life on catching fleeting happiness that will fade. Instead, spend time and energy on finding joy that quiet assurance that you are loved. In the end, joy breeds happiness.

“Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” (Philippians 3:8)

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