Pondering Point

This verse makes it apparent that part of the joy that inspired Jesus to persevere is you and me. Not just us of course – it was also the joy of Jesus to do the will of the Father. But don’t you see that the will of the Father was to save us? And that drove Jesus to stay his course. You are a JOY to Jesus and to the Father. When you find that you are kicking yourself for messing up or acting the fool, remember this truth, let it bring a smile to your face, and let it give you solid biblical footing. You are LOVED and ENJOYED by God.

The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry

I've been thinking about Paul's line in Philippians lately: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). I hear people tear that line out of context all the time. They use it for raising money at the church or getting the promotion or beating cancer or raising a family. All good things. But do you know what Paul was writing about in context? Contentment. The line right before that he is as follows: I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want (Philippians 4:11-12).
~ J.M. Comer, The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, p. 215, 216