Paul makes the argument that those who follow the example of our Lord Jesus Christ will have hope. Biblical hope is assurance based on God’s Word. This means that the obedient believer will have ultimate victory on the day of Christ. Therefore, Christian we have reason to rejoice no matter what we face.
Philippians 1:18 ESV What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice,
Philippians 3:1 ESV Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you.
Philippians 4:4 ESV Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.
We may hear supposedly well-meaning Christians say, “God helps those who help themselves“. This statement is unscriptural in many ways. The truth is that we can be confident that God does not leave us alone in our Christian walk to struggle, trying to make our way the best we can.
The confidence that we have is that it is God who works in and through us to do His will and to work His good pleasure. Our Christian bookstores are filled with “self-help books.” The so-called “self” of a person cannot live a Christian life. It takes Christ in and through us to live the Christian life.
Philippians 2:13 ESV for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.
Galatians 2:20-21 ESV I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (21) I do not nullify the grace of God, for if righteousness were through the law, then Christ died for no purpose.