THURSDAY January 20, 2022
My Joy and Crown
Therefore, my beloved and longed-for brethren, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, beloved.
Philippians 4:1
Therefore, is a word that refers back to all Paul had previously taught the believers in Philippi. The Philippians were to press forward, to be like-minded and follow the Christ-like pattern Paul set before them––as he followed Christ. They were to live in a manner befitting their heavenly citizenship, and wait eagerly for their Savior’s return.
Despite being under house arrest, Paul expressed his heart to the brethren. He was unable to see them, but he wrote to let them know just how much he loved them. He gave the Philippians beautiful words of comfort and endearment by calling them his joy and crown. Paul longed for them, but the peace of God ruled over his heart.
Sadly, Paul had heard that division had entered into the church, and it broke his heart. This conflict of division could destroy the church. The Philippians had started out well in the faith and he wanted them to finish strong. So Paul exhorted the believers to stand firm under these difficult circumstances in the strength and sufficiency of the Lord. The words stand fast or stand firm gives a picture of a soldier who remains standing in the heat of a battle.
The Philippians joy was being threatened by the division at hand. Those who cause division usually do not listen to the Word of God or the elders of a church. They have their own mind, and are self-seeking; instead of being of one mind with other believers they cause such a headache and heartache to the church. They extinguish joy.
How we need the same love for one another! It is important to give wise counsel to those who are having problems with division and biblical authority. Are you a constant problem in the church by causing division? Repent and be a pillar instead.
There are no crown-wearers in Heaven who were not cross-bearers here below.
~C. H. Spurgeon~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
